Publications

Proper management of pharmaceutical waste is crucial for safeguarding public health and the environment. Thisstudy aimed to comprehensively assess pharmaceutical waste management practices in hospitals, pharmacies, andhouseholds within Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality, Uganda. The study employed a qualitative case study design,gathering data through observations, interviews, and questionnaires administered to five pharmacies, twohospitals, and 100 households. The results revealed that the mean amount of pharmaceutical waste generated bypharmacies and hospitals in Ishaka was 40.5 kg ± 32.39 kg per month, of which 26.83 kg ± 29.10 kg weredisposed of safely. However, 60% of the waste was categorized as hazardous. The study found that while mostfacilities used labeled or color-coded containers for waste segregation, the practice of segregation wasinconsistent, with 71.43% of the facilities not segregating their waste. Incineration (42.86%) and dilution followedby flushing in protected soak pits (42.86%) were the primary disposal methods employed by the facilities.Concerningly, only 4% of households returned unused or expired medications to pharmacies, with the majoritydisposing of them in dustbins (46%) or flushing them down toilets (41%). The findings also highlighted gaps inawareness and training, with 50% of pharmacy staff not receiving any training on proper pharmaceutical wastedisposal, and only 14.29% of the facilities having established waste management guidelines. These deficiencies inknowledge and practices contribute to the suboptimal management of pharmaceutical waste, posing significantrisks to public health and the environment. The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive policies,targeted training programs, and community-based initiatives to enhance pharmaceutical waste managementpractices in Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality and similar settings. Addressing these challenges is crucial formitigating the adverse impacts of improper pharmaceutical waste disposal and promoting sustainable healthcarewaste management