The Dermatologic Impact of Pesticide Exposure in Agricultural Workers: A Review of Cutaneous Risk and Occupational Disparities Across the Americas
Abstract:
Background: Agricultural workers are routinely exposed to pesticides that can induce a wide range of dermato logic conditions. These include acute irritant reactions, allergic contact dermatitis, pigmentary changes, chronic skin barrier disruption, and occupational skin cancers.
Objective: This review synthesizes existing literature on the dermatologic effects of pesticide exposure among ag ricultural and migrant laborers in the Americas. Methods: A literature review of studies from 2000 to 2025 was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and occupation al health databases, with emphasis on dermatologic outcomes, occupational practices, and systemic disparities.
Results: Pesticide-induced skin conditions include irritant and allergic contact dermatitis, chemical burns, hyper pigmentation, chloracne, and cutaneous malignancies. Risk is compounded by inadequate protective equipment, low regulatory enforcement, and poor healthcare access in rural and migrant populations.
Conclusion: Pesticide exposure is a preventable cause of dermatologic disease among agricultural workers. Im proved surveillance, education, and policy reform are critical to reducing dermatologic harm in these vulnerable communities.
