Renal Function Assessment in Adults Occupationally Exposed to Pesticides in Vegetable Farming Communities of Plateau State

Vegetable farming in the Jos Plateau region involves intensive use of pesticides, raising concerns about potential nephrotoxic effects on exposed farmers. This study assessed renal function in adults engaged in pesticide-intensive vegetable farming in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. Seventy farmers with at least two years of regular pesticide exposure were recruited alongside 35 non-farming community members. Blood samples were collected for determination of serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, and estimated glomerular filtration rate using a validated clinical biochemistry analyser. Spot urine was tested for protein and glucose by dipstick. Pesticide exposure was quantified through structured interview on frequency, type, and duration of use. Unpaired t-tests and logistic regression were employed. Results showed significantly elevated serum creatinine and reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate in farming participants. Proteinuria was detected in 24.3 percent of farmers compared to 5.7 percent of controls. Those applying pesticides more than three times weekly had the worst renal profiles. The study concludes that occupational pesticide exposure among Jos Plateau vegetable farmers is associated with measurable renal impairment. Provision of personal protective equipment, pesticide application training, and periodic kidney function screening are recommended for farming communities in Plateau State. Keywords: pesticide exposure, renal function, nephrotoxicity, vegetable farmers, Plateau State.