Premature Aging Among Cocoa Farmers and Restorative Effects of Ecotourism in Ikom Local Government Area

Publication Details

Publication Date

10/11/2026

Volume / Issue

Vol 1, Issue 6 (2026)

Article No.

101

Journal

British Journal of Contemporary Research

DOI

https://doi.org/10.67693/BJCR-RL97I7MQ

Received

04 Oct 2026

Views

33

Downloads

14

Abstract

The case of early aging in small-scale farmers is becoming increasingly common among labour-intensive farming systems in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to analyse premature aging predictors among cocoa farmers in Ikom Local Government Area as well as the restorative potential of ecotourism. Cross-sectional research methods involving 320 farmers were applied, and data collection was conducted through surveys, interviews and focus groups, using descriptive and regression analysis of results. High percentages of fatigue (72.5%), joint pains (68.1%) and stress (66.9%) were identified among farmers, with working hours and agrochemical use being associated with a higher risk of aging and income and better access to healthcare being protective factors. Only 31.9% participated in ecotourism, although farmers experienced less fatigue and stress as well as higher income from the activity.

License

This article is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License . Free to read, share, and adapt with attribution.