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Challenges of Eliminating Medical Waste

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About ten to twenty percent of the medical facilities' annual budget is allocated for proper waste disposal. Also, the World Health Organization has found out that eighty-five percent of the overall generated waste is considered non-hazardous while the remaining fifteen percent is considered radioactive, toxic, or infectious.

These infectious wastes can harm humans and animals, and the environment; thus, it is necessary to practice safe waste disposal. However, getting rid of these hazardous wastes is never easy. Hospital workers and people living near health care establishments face some challenges in eliminating these medical wastes.

Health Risks

Hazardous wastes are one of the major sources of infections because of the harmful microorganisms they contain. These may cause air pollution, chemical burns, radiation burns, and exposure to pharmaceutical substances like dioxins or mercury, especially during waste incineration. People exposed to these hazardous wastes are hospital staff, hospital patients, and people residing near health care establishments.

Environmental Risks


Improper disposal of medical wastes can contaminate nearby trees and groundwater as these wastes release hazardous chemical substances. Also, deficient medical waste incineration may release harmful pollutants into the air.
 
Final Words


Well, some people might think that fifteen percent is just a small percentage compared to the amount of non-harmful wastes. Yes, it is indeed "less" for people residing away from landfills. Still, it is already a significant amount for health care providers, hospital employees, and people residing near hospitals and dumps sites. These biological hazards can indeed take a toll on the environment and all living creatures.