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Medical Waste in Developing Countries

developing nations
The healthcare industry in third world nations is growing rapidly. This has led to the generation of enormous amounts of medical waste by hospitals, clinics and other facilities.

While the quantity varies, it may range between ½ to 2 ½ kg per bed each day. To be more specific, India generates about 500 tons of medical waste each day, and Saudi Arabia about 80 tons. The quantities being generated are causing major public health and environmental issues worldwide. The problem is made worse by incorrect disposal methods, lack of physical resources and a scarcity of research into the management of medical waste. There is an urgent need to make healthcare more sustainable.

The main risks to the public and environment are from infectious waste. This makes up about 20% of the total healthcare waste in developing countries. It includes anything that’s been contaminated with body fluids, for instance used catheters, IV equipment, needles, wound dressings, cultures, diapers and swabs.

If these waste materials are not correctly managed in the developing nation, they will pose a risk to patients, health workers, waste handlers and the public. The environment will also be contaminated, affecting the air, water and soil.

It’s therefore vital that affordable measures are put in place to manage such waste in a safe manner.