A geo-gender-based analysis of human health: The presence of cut flower farms can attenuate pesticide exposure in African communities, with women being the most vulnerable.

Background: The rapid expansion of the cut flower industry in Africa has led to pervasive use and potential exposure of pesticides, raising concerns for local communities. Whether the risks associated with pesticide applications are localised or have broader implications remains unclear.

Methods: We measured biomarkers of real and perceived pesticide exposure in two Kenyan communities: Naivasha, where the cut flower industry is present, and Mogotio, where the cut flower industry is absent.