A STUDY ON THE IMPACT AND CONTROL OF IMPROPER HEALTHCARE WASTE DISPOSAL IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study The issue of managing healthcare waste has become increasingly urgent within health systems around the world. Medical institutions generate a significant amount of waste, much of which is considered hazardous due to its potential to harm both human health and the environment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 85% of waste from healthcare settings is non-hazardous, while the remaining 15% includes dangerous materials like infectious, chemical, and radioactive waste (WHO, 2020). When not properly managed, medical waste can lead to serious environmental problems, such as contamination of air, water, and soil. These pollutants generally fall into three categories: biological, chemical, and radioactive. Environmental degradation can result not only from the waste itself but also from the processes involved in its collection, treatment, and disposal. This study explores the consequences of poor healthcare waste management and proposes appropriate methods to safeguard the health of medical workers (Joseph, Paul, Premkumar & Paul, 2015). Mismanagement of hospital waste refers to the inefficient or careless handling of waste during its various stages—generation, collection, storage, transportation, and treatment. This mishandling can involve several unsafe practices such as operating without personal protective equipment (PPE), improper storage conditions (like exposing waste to extreme temperatures before treatment), long-distance manual transportation, and using open containers instead of sealed bags. Other poor practices include prolonged exposure beyond safe limits, lack of protocols for cleaning equipment and personnel, among others (Maina, Andrew & Caroline, 2016). These lapses can have numerous negative effects on healthcare workers. The health risks associated with improperly disposed biomedical waste are well documented. Exposure to such waste can lead to serious infections and increased rates of morbidity and mortality, especially among high-risk groups like children and immunocompromised individuals (Jha et al., 2021). Additionally, mishandling of pharmaceutical waste may contribute to the growing challenge of drug resistance and environmental pollution, thereby placing long-term stress on public health systems (He et al., 2019). The economic impact is also considerable, as poorly managed healthcare waste leads to increased medical costs for treating related illnesses and for environmental remediation. Therefore, this study seeks to explore the effects of improper disposal and the current waste management practices within healthcare settings in Cameroon. 1.2 Statement of the Problem The incorrect disposal of healthcare waste poses a serious threat to both the environment and public health on a global scale. In many healthcare facilities, waste management practices are insufficient, leading to careless disposal of biological materials such as infectious agents, pharmaceutical products, and sharp objects. This irresponsible disposal contaminates the land, water, and air (WHO, 2020). Beyond the immediate health risks to patients and medical personnel, such practices undermine broader efforts aimed at promoting sustainable development and environmental protection (Akkajit, Romin & Assawadithalerd, 2020). Despite the existence of policies and regulations, challenges still persist in ensuring the effective implementation and enforcement of proper waste disposal methods, especially in resource-limited settings. As such, this study aims to examine the impact and management of improper healthcare waste disposal in Cameroon. 1.3 Objective of the Study The main aim of this study is to explore the effects and current management strategies regarding the improper disposal of healthcare waste in Cameroon. The specific objectives include: i. To investigate the primary factors contributing to the improper disposal of healthcare waste in Cameroon. ii. To examine the impact of improperly disposed healthcare waste on the environment and public health in Cameroon. iii. To identify viable strategies for improving the management of healthcare waste disposal in Cameroon. 1.4 Research Questions This study will be guided by the following research questions: i. What are the primary factors leading to the improper disposal of healthcare waste in Cameroon? ii. What are the effects of improperly disposed healthcare waste in Cameroon? iii. What strategies can be adopted to improve the management of healthcare waste in Cameroon? 1.5 Significance of the Study The findings from this study will be valuable to several stakeholders. For the Ministry of Health, the study highlights the urgent need to address health risks associated with the improper disposal of healthcare waste, which can facilitate the spread of diseases, particularly among vulnerable groups. By emphasizing these risks, the study aims to support the development of effective strategies that will help protect public health and lower the occurrence of waste-related illnesses. Additionally, the study contributes to academic research by expanding the existing literature on healthcare waste management and will serve as a useful reference for future researchers in the field. 1.6 Scope of the Study This research focuses specifically on the effects and management of improper healthcare waste disposal in Cameroon. From an empirical standpoint, the study will examine the causes of improper disposal, evaluate its impacts, and propose management solutions. Geographically, the study is limited to the Limbe Provincial Hospital in Cameroon. 1.7 Limitations of the Study As with any research, certain limitations were encountered during the course of this study. One major constraint was time, as the researcher had to balance this study with other academic responsibilities such as attending lectures and completing assignments. Financial limitations also posed a challenge, particularly in covering the costs of typesetting, printing, sourcing materials, and conducting fieldwork. Lastly, availability of materials was another issue, as finding relevant literature proved difficult due to the limited scope of existing research on the topic. 1.8 Definition of Terms Healthcare Waste: Waste materials generated from medical institutions such as hospitals, laboratories, and clinics, including infectious substances, pharmaceuticals, sharp tools, and other potentially harmful products. Improper Disposal: The incorrect or unsafe treatment and discarding of waste materials, which does not adhere to established safety guidelines and can result in health and environmental hazards (Smith et al., 2018). Biomedical Waste: A category of healthcare waste that includes any materials contaminated with infectious agents or hazardous chemicals, such as bodily fluids, tissues, and used medical packaging. Infectious Waste: Any type of waste that contains harmful microorganisms capable of causing disease, such as used syringes, dressings, and gloves. Pharmaceutical Waste: Unused, expired, or contaminated medications and their packaging, which must be handled carefully to avoid harm to the environment and human health. Sharps: Medical tools like needles, scalpels, and broken glass that can puncture or injure skin and pose significant health risks if not disposed of properly. Waste Management Practices: The various strategies and procedures used to handle healthcare waste safely, including sorting, collection, treatment, and disposal, with the aim of minimizing environmental and health impacts