Physiological Effects of Pesticide Exposure on Liver Function and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers Among Cocoa Farmers in Cross River State, South South Nigeria

Background: Cocoa farming in Cross River State involves intensive pesticide application, exposing farmers to organophosphate and synthetic pyrethroid compounds with documented hepatotoxic potential. Liver function impairment and increased oxidative stress are early physiological consequences of chronic agricultural pesticide exposure that remain inadequately quantified in this farming population. Objectives: This study aims to measure aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and serum albumin as liver function markers, alongside malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase as oxidative stress indicators, in cocoa farmers compared with non-farming rural controls in Cross River State. Methods: Eighty cocoa farmers and forty controls from non-farming rural communities will be recruited. Eight millilitres of venous blood will be collected for biochemical analysis. A structured questionnaire will document pesticide types used, application frequency, protective equipment use, and duration of farming. ANCOVA adjusting for age, alcohol use, and body mass index will compare group means. Expected Outcomes: Farmers are anticipated to exhibit elevated transaminases and malondialdehyde alongside reduced superoxide dismutase activity, indicating hepatic stress and oxidative damage proportional to pesticide exposure duration. Conclusion: Findings will support regulatory advocacy for pesticide safety training in Nigerian smallholder farming communities. Keywords: pesticide exposure, liver function, oxidative stress, cocoa farmers, Cross River State.