Experiences of heat stress and adapting practices among farmworkers in northwest Nicaragua: a qualitative study.

OBJECTIVES

Chronic heat stress and recurrent dehydration from strenuous labour in hot environments are recognised drivers of acute kidney injury among agricultural workers in Mesoamerica and may contribute to Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Aetiology (CKDu). This study explored how members of a long-term community-based cohort in northwest Nicaragua perceive, experience and adapt to extreme heat, within the broader context of environmental and labour changes.

DESIGN

This qualitative study used focus group discussions with participants from a community-based cohort followed for over a decade and community members. Transcripts were analysed thematically using an interpretative approach, with trustworthiness ensured through peer debriefing, audit trails, triangulation and achievement of thematic saturation.

SETTINGS: Rural agricultural communities in northwest Nicaragua participating in a long-term community-based cohort.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were purposively sampled from a prospective community-based cohort and community members were invited to participate. Men and women across different age groups were invited. In total, 91 adults aged ≥18 years participated in 11 face-to-face focus groups, each comprising 8-11 men or women.

OUTCOMES: Themes describing experiences of heat stress, occupational risk and adaptive responses among agricultural workers.

RESULTS

Participants described worsening heat linked to deforestation, unsafe and inadequate water access and unrealistic production targets that prioritised output over health. In response, workers reported adaptive practices including self-paced labour, hydration routines and peer monitoring. Community solidarity and mutual aid emerged as key sources of resilience despite structural constraints.

CONCLUSION

Heat stress amplifies occupational hazards and exacerbates health inequities among marginalised agricultural workers. Integrating climate adaptation and equity into labour protections-ensuring access to clean water, adequate shade and fair workloads-can strengthen resilience in agricultural communities facing rising heat-related health risks.