Agricultural Practices and Their Impact on Community Health: A Global Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17140/phoj.11.01.184Keywords:
Agricultural practices, community health, sustainable agriculture, pesticide exposure, food securityAbstract
Agricultural practices play a critical role in shaping not only food production systems but also the overall health and well-being of communities worldwide. With the increasing global demand for food, agricultural intensification has led to both positive and negative health outcomes. This review examines the complex relationship between agricultural practices and community health, highlighting key factors such as pesticide usage, water management, soil health, and livestock production systems. While modern agriculture has significantly improved food security and economic stability, it has also contributed to environmental degradation, chemical exposure, and the emergence of health risks among farming communities and consumers. The review further explores the role of sustainable agricultural practices, including organic farming, integrated pest management, and agroecological approaches, in mitigating health risks and promoting ecological balance. Special emphasis is placed on the socio-economic determinants influencing farmers’ adoption of safe and sustainable practices, particularly in developing countries. Additionally, the study discusses the impact of climate change on agriculture and its indirect effects on public health through food insecurity, malnutrition, and the spread of vector-borne diseases. Overall, the paper underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving policymakers, agricultural experts, and public health professionals to ensure that agricultural development aligns with health and environmental sustainability goals. Promoting safer and more sustainable farming practices is essential for improving community health outcomes globally
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