Using Community-Based Participatory Research to Assess and Address Job-Associated Hazards in Pregnant Farmworkers in Florida

Few studies have examined the specific risks to pregnant women in the agricultural workforce. Exposure to agricultural chemicals is a major occupational and reproductive hazard and other factors such as long periods of standing and exposure to heat and dehydration have the potential to impact the health of pregnant women and their unborn children. This exploratory study is a partnership between investigators from Emory University, the University of Florida, the Farmworker Association of Florida, and the Farmworker Health and Safety Institute and brings together experts in community-based participatory research and methods of education and organizing farmworkers. The study team has extensive scientific and clinical expertise in occupational exposures and maternal health. Using focus group methodology, we are currently examining perceptions of work hazards and pregnancy health among female farmworkers who work in nursery and fernery operations in Florida.

In upcoming years, we will assess biomarkers of pesticide exposure and the extent to which exposures to heat and ergonomic challenges impact pregnancy outcomes in a subsample of participants. The goal of this community-based participatory research is to develop culturally and linguistically-appropriate educational materials that emphasize health promoting and protective behaviors during pregnancy for female farmworkers. These materials will be disseminated to farmworkers and the health and scientific community through farmworker community public forums, peer-reviewed journal articles, presentations at professional conferences and, and web-based publications.