A Study of the Sensitivity, Specificity, and Accuracy of a Developed Risk Matrix on Risk Assessment Among Pesticide Sprayers

The effects of pesticide exposure on human health are a significant concern in the global agricultural sector. However, developed risk matrix of occupational exposure and pesticide screening have rarely been studied. This study aimed to investigate the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of a developed occupational risk assessment matrix. Data were collected from both an interview questionnaire and serum cholinesterase testing by using cholinesterase reactive paper. The participants were 421 pesticide sprayers in northeastern Thailand. The risk matrix (4x4) was developed by multiplying the likelihood of pesticide exposure by the severity level of adverse symptoms. The risk score was classified into acceptable and unacceptable levels of risk. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the risk matrix were assessed by using a standard 2 × 2table. Most of the sprayers were male (69%) and their ages ranged between 19 and 76 years old (mean = 53; SD = 10). Abnormal cholinesterase test results indicated an unsafe level of risk for 48% of sprayers (95% CI: 44% -53%). The risk matrix showed that the largest proportion of sprayers (42.52%, 95%CI: 38% -47%) were classified as moderate risk, followed by those at a low-to-very high risk (57%, 95% CI: 53% -62%). The risk matrix findings showed a sensitivity of 73.17% (95% CI: 69% -77%) and a specificity of 64% (95% CI: 59% -68%) for risk screening. The positive predictive value was 99% (95% CI: 98% -100%), the negative predictive value was 6% (95% CI: 4% -8%) and the accuracy was 73% (95% CI: 69% -77%). Conclusion: These pesticide sprayers represent a high-risk group, highlighting the need for effective guidance in conducting risk assessment programs for pesticide exposure. Therefore, this developed risk matrix is also valuable for health screening among pesticide applicators.