Pesticide exposure increases the incidence of low birth weight in agricultural areas

Authors

  • Fajar Dini Hariyanti Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember, Indonesia
  • Gisca Yuan Sausan Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember, Indonesia
  • Rianti Yulia Kusuma Ayu Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember, Indonesia
  • Enggal Hadi Kurniyawan Faculty of Nursing, University of Jember
  • Alfid Tri Afandi Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember, Indonesia
  • Dicky Endrian Kurniawan Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Jember, Indonesia
  • Kholid Rosyidi Muhammad Nur Faculty of Nursing, University of Jember

Keywords:

Pesticide, Low birth weight, Agriculture

Abstract

The widespread use of pesticides in agriculture and households poses serious health risks, especially in low-income countries with weak regulatory enforcement. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, as prenatal pesticide exposure is linked to low birth weight (LBW) through hormonal and neurotoxic effects. Socioeconomic challenges and proximity to agricultural areas further increase these risks, making it essential to address this issue to improve maternal and neonatal health in farming communities. This study analyzes the incidence of LBW according to levels of prenatal pesticide exposure among pregnant women in agricultural communities by examining environmental exposure patterns and birth outcome data. A literature review was conducted for 2019–2025 using PubMed, ScienceDirect, SSRN, Wiley Online Library, and ProQuest, and from an initial pool of 142,730 records, filters for research articles, full-text availability, and topic relevance yielded 14 studies for final analysis. Across the 14 studies, prenatal pesticide exposure was consistently associated with an increased risk of LBW and fetal growth restriction. Key factors influencing this risk included low socioeconomic status, pesticide type (organophosphates, fumigants), and timing of exposure—particularly during the second trimester. Living near agricultural areas also correlated with higher exposure levels, which may impair placental function, disrupt hormonal balance, and interfere with fetal tissue development. Some studies additionally reported long-term developmental problems. Prenatal pesticide exposure significantly increases the risk of LBW. Reducing maternal pesticide exposure and strengthening protective health interventions are crucial to improving agricultural communities' birth outcomes.

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Published

2025-12-01

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025): December 2025

Section

Articles