Pesticide exposure associated with mild cognitive impairment and depression among agricultural workers Case control study in rural India

Study Title

Association of chronic environmental organophosphorus pesticide exposure with neurodegenerative diseases: Case control study in rural West Bengal

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the association between organophosphorus pesticide exposure and neurodegenerative diseases, including cognitive impairment, depression, and movement disorders, in rural India. Conducted in Galsi II block, Purba Bardhaman district, West Bengal—an agriculturally active region—the study focused on villages around the Adrahati PHC.

Participants were residents aged 50 and above who had lived in the area for at least five years. Sampling followed a systematic random approach, visiting every 3rd or 5th household. Village peers and Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) assisted with data collection. Recruitment began in September 2018 and continued until February 2020. Of 808 screened participants, 180 tested positive for cognitive impairment, depression, both conditions, or movement disorders.