A Review of Likely Risks of Fungicides Usage in Agricultural Lands

Fungicides are potential hazardous chemical compounds that their optimized application results in the control of fungal plant pathogens and increase in the quantity and quality of yield. Improper application of chemical fungicides may cause serious problems for the environment and non-target organisms including farmers and consumers. From among 53 registered fungicides in Iran until September 2009, 31 could be potentially hazardous for human health. Some of the health problems they may cause include cancer, mutation (tratogen), reproductive and development diseases and endocrine disruption. The aim of this study is to discuss adverse problems, risks and side effects on the human health. This article provides an alert for agricultural community including farmers, extension specialists and in general all fungicides users to follow safety instructions when using and applying chemical fungicides in the fields.