AN ASSESSMENT ON THE APPLICATION OF INCINERATION FOR HEALTHCARE WASTE MANAGEMENT IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study Healthcare waste (HCW) is a byproduct of medical activities and procedures. It mainly originates from places such as hospitals, clinics, laboratories, blood banks, and mortuaries. While a large percentage of this waste—between 75% and 90%—is similar in nature to household waste, the remaining 10% to 25% is categorized as healthcare risk waste (HCRW). This portion includes a wide variety of dangerous materials such as infectious waste, anatomical and pathological materials, chemical and pharmaceutical waste, pressurized containers, sharp instruments, highly infectious materials, genotoxic/cytotoxic waste, and radioactive substances. Despite being a smaller fraction of the total waste produced, the improper handling of HCRW can have serious consequences for patients, healthcare workers, communities, and the environment. The World Health Organization (2015) highlighted this concern. In fact, research by Oli et al. (2016) revealed that contaminated needles alone contribute to over 23 million new cases of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV globally each year. Therefore, effective treatment and management of HCRW are critical. Incineration is one of the most commonly employed methods for managing healthcare waste due to its effectiveness in reducing waste volume and destroying harmful pathogens (Afon, Afolabi, Agbabiaka & Akinbinu, 2017). This technique involves burning waste at high temperatures, which significantly reduces the volume of the material and neutralizes most dangerous elements. However, this method is not without its drawbacks. There are valid concerns regarding the environmental and health risks associated with incineration, particularly the emission of hazardous substances such as dioxins and furans, as well as the generation of ash that must be carefully disposed of (Dereje, Tadese, Yared, & Getasew, 2020). Moreover, the use of incineration is further complicated by its financial implications. Although it can reduce waste volume and potentially lower long-term disposal costs, the initial investment and operational expenses are often very high. Additionally, concerns persist regarding the environmental effects of emissions and whether incineration is a sustainable long-term solution for healthcare waste management. In light of these concerns, it becomes essential to explore the consequences and current practices surrounding the improper disposal of healthcare waste in Cameroon. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Healthcare institutions produce considerable volumes of waste, a substantial amount of which is hazardous and, if not managed correctly, can pose significant health and environmental risks (WHO, 2018). Traditional methods such as open burning and landfilling have proven inadequate for addressing these challenges. These practices often result in the release of toxic pollutants and can contaminate both soil and water resources (Akter, 2021). Although incineration is often recommended as a viable solution for tackling these issues—mainly due to its efficiency in reducing waste volume and destroying pathogens (Almuneef & Memish, 2015)—there are ongoing concerns about its environmental implications. This includes the release of dangerous gases and the creation of ash residues that require careful management (Giusti, 2019). Despite the widespread use of incineration, debates continue over its overall effectiveness and safety. Therefore, this study seeks to examine the impact and management of healthcare waste, particularly improper disposal practices, within the Cameroonian context. 1.3 Objective of the Study The main aim of this study is to examine the application of incineration as a strategy for managing healthcare waste in Cameroon. The specific objectives include: i. To investigate the reasons behind the adoption of incineration for managing healthcare waste in Cameroon. ii. To evaluate the environmental impact resulting from emissions produced through the incineration of healthcare waste in Cameroon. iii. To identify the challenges associated with implementing incineration technologies in Cameroonian healthcare facilities. 1.4 Research Questions The study will be guided by the following questions: i. What are the reasons for using incineration as a healthcare waste management method in Cameroon? ii. What environmental effects arise from the emissions produced by healthcare waste incineration in Cameroon? iii. What challenges do healthcare facilities face in implementing incineration technologies in Cameroon? 1.5 Significance of the Study The outcomes of this study are expected to be valuable for both policy-makers and healthcare waste management stakeholders. By analyzing the environmental and health impacts of incineration, this research could support the creation of stronger regulatory guidelines to promote safer and more sustainable waste disposal practices. Furthermore, this study holds academic significance. It will add to the existing body of knowledge and serve as a useful resource for scholars and researchers interested in waste management, environmental health, or public health policy. 1.6 Scope of the Study This research is focused on investigating the use of incineration as a healthcare waste management approach in Cameroon. Specifically, it will examine the rationale behind the use of incineration, evaluate its environmental impact, and explore the challenges healthcare institutions face when implementing incineration technologies. Geographically, the study is limited to the Central Hospital of Yaoundé, Cameroon. 1.7 Limitations of the Study As with many academic endeavors, this research encountered certain limitations: Time Constraints: The researcher faced challenges balancing this study with other academic responsibilities, including lectures and coursework. Financial Challenges: Significant personal expenses were incurred in carrying out this research, such as printing, typing, sourcing materials, and data collection. Availability of Materials: Finding relevant literature and reference materials proved difficult, especially due to the specificity and technical nature of the topic. 1.8 Definition of Terms Healthcare Waste: This refers to all forms of waste generated from healthcare activities, including those from hospitals, clinics, labs, and other medical services. It may contain hazardous elements such as infectious agents, pharmaceuticals, toxic chemicals, and sharps. Incineration: A method of treating waste by burning it at high temperatures. This reduces the volume of waste and destroys many harmful substances but may produce air pollutants and toxic ash. Hazardous Waste: Waste materials that pose significant risks to human health or the environment. This includes substances that are toxic, reactive, infectious, or corrosive. Pathogens: Disease-causing microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. In healthcare waste, these are often present in blood, tissue, or other biological materials . Emissions: Gases and fine particles released into the air during combustion processes such as incineration. These emissions can include harmful substances like carbon dioxide (CO₂), heavy metals, dioxins, and other pollutants.