Exposure to Pesticides and Mucocutaneous Adverse Effects Among Asian Agricultural Workers: A Scoping Review

Pesticides are commonly used in agriculture to ensure disease-free products; however, comprehensive evidence of their mucocutaneous effects among Asian agricultural workers is limited. This scoping review aimed to map the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and contributing factors of pesticide-related mucocutaneous conditions among agricultural workers in Asia. The study was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and the Directory of Open Access Journals to identify studies published between 2005 and January 2025. Observational and cross-sectional studies involving agricultural workers in Asia and examining pesticide exposure with associated mucocutaneous effects were included. Data were charted using a standardized form, including study details, participant demographics, prevalence of mucocutaneous symptoms, types of pesticides used, and exposure-related outcomes. A total of ten studies were included in the study. Skin-related symptoms ranged from 4.8% to 37.5%, while ocular symptoms ranged from 6.0% to 41.2%. Allergic contact dermatitis was reported in 26.1% of workers, and acute dermatitis accounted for 24.0% to 54.0% of pesticide-related dermatitis cases. Organophosphate insecticides, bipyridylium herbicides, and fungicides were commonly reported in relation to these effects. Limited personal protective equipment use and unsafe practices may have increased exposure risk. This review highlights the need for standardized exposure assessment, improved protective measures, and stronger occupational safety interventions.