Taking Care of Our Health in Farming: Key Insights from Agrii’s Petra Martin and Billy Hodsell

In this episode of the Tramlines podcast, host Tony Smith speaks with Petra Martin, Group Head of Health and Safety for Origin Enterprises and Agrii, and Billy Hodsell, an agronomist with Agrii.

They discuss a crucial question for those in farming: while we care for crops, livestock, and others, are we doing enough to look after ourselves? They explore some of the most significant health risks in agriculture and share personal experiences that underline the importance of health awareness.

Why Should We Prioritise Our Health in Farming?

Petra Martin: In agriculture, the business relies heavily on you, day after day. You’re not just taking care of crops and livestock, but also your family and your business. Your health is the biggest asset. If we neglect our health, the whole operation is at risk.

Billy Hodsell: Farming often involves long hours and a heavy workload, so we tend to push aside any health concerns. Sometimes it’s simply a matter of making the time to look after ourselves, which is easier said than done.

Unique Health Risks in Agriculture

Petra Martin explains that farming has particular health risks due to its predominantly outdoor environment and the ageing farming population. Many health conditions, such as respiratory and skin-related issues, become more prevalent as we get older. Some of the key risks in farming include:

• Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer: With the UK’s agricultural workforce spending extensive time outdoors, skin cancer is a significant risk. Statistics from the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health show that around 1,700 people are diagnosed yearly with skin cancer as a direct result of occupational sun exposure, making it the most common cancer in the UK.
• Respiratory Issues: Dust from working with grains and livestock can lead to respiratory diseases over time. Wearing the right protective gear and understanding the risks are essential for long-term respiratory health.
  
  

Talking About Health: Breaking Down Barriers

Billy Hodsell: Society has become more open, allowing us to talk about health more comfortably than we did decades ago. Now, it’s more acceptable for friends and colleagues to encourage each other to seek medical advice if something seems off.

Petra Martin: Women might feel more comfortable discussing health concerns because of different life experiences, like pregnancy. However, the culture around sharing health concerns is changing for the better in all areas of farming.

Spotlight on Key Health Concerns

Skin Cancer in Agriculture

Petra highlighted that the agricultural sector sees a high proportion of work-related skin cancer cases, second only to construction. Farmers may not always think of wearing sunscreen or protective clothing, especially in early spring and late autumn when sunburn can still occur.

Billy Hodsell: The sun’s rays can start causing skin damage as early as March. It’s essential to get into the habit of applying sunscreen and wearing a wide-brimmed hat daily, not just in summer. It’s all about building these habits.

Testicular and Breast Cancer Awareness

Petra Martin: Testicular cancer might account for only 1% of all cancers in men, but early detection is vital. Because it often affects younger men, there can be a reluctance to go to the doctor. Similarly, for breast cancer, even if women know to look for lumps, they might delay visiting the doctor, thinking it’s not serious or not wanting to “make a fuss.”

Billy Hodsell: Awareness campaigns like the “Balls” campaign at rugby clubs encourage men to check for signs of testicular cancer. It’s about getting people comfortable with discussing and addressing these issues.

Prostate Cancer: A Prevalent Issue

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with 52,000 diagnoses each year in the UK. Petra shared that her own family has been impacted by prostate cancer, illustrating the difference early detection can make.

Billy Hodsell: Prostate cancer often affects older men, but it’s crucial for men of all ages to recognise any symptoms or changes and seek medical advice. The earlier, the better.

Billy’s Journey: Learning the Hard Way

Billy shared his experience with tonsil cancer, explaining how he initially ignored a lump in his throat during a busy time on the farm. After multiple visits to the doctor, he was diagnosed and received successful treatment. This experience reinforced the importance of not dismissing changes or symptoms, especially when caught up in the daily demands of farming.

Closing Thoughts

Petra Martin: Farming won’t wait—crops need planting, livestock needs feeding, and every season brings its own tasks. But we must prioritise our own health because, without us, none of it happens.

Billy Hodsell: If you notice something different, however small, get it checked. Doctors would rather see you early and give reassurance than have to address something serious later on.

Resources for Farmers’ Health

We are giving every listener a copy of the FCN’s Fit for Farming booklet.

Simply email your address to info@agrii.co.uk and we will send you one in the post (there is a male and female version, please specify your choice).