ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORS ABOUT PESTICIDE-RESIDUES, SUSCEPTIBILITY TO CANCER, AND CONSUMPTION OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Nutrition educators are encouraging increased consumption of fruits and vegetables as a source of fiber, nutrients and anti-carcinogens. However, media messages about the health effects of pesticide residues have created fear about consuming fresh produce. A survey was sent to 2,000 Washington state residents to assess attitudes and behaviors related to concern about pesticide residues, perceived susceptibility to cancer, and consumption of fruits and vegetables. The survey included questions that were developed to assess each of the attitude and behavior variables. Multiple regression analysis indicated that 41% of the residue-reducing behavior and 44% of the health concern about pesticides was explained by the variables. Individuals with health concerns regarding pesticides had higher scores for residue-reducing behaviors, environmental concern, and perceived susceptibility to cancer. Respondents with low concerns about pesticides had a higher trust in regulation and saw greater benefits for pesticide use. Concerns beyond personal health, such as environmental concern, appear to contribute to concerns about pesticide residues. Fear of pesticide residues does not appear to diminish nutrition behaviors related to fruit and vegetable consumption.