Neglected Dimension of Health Care System : Biomedical Waste

During last few decade with increasing population and dependency on technology, health issues are increasing rapidly and to cater the problems hospitals are growing like mushrooms. Consequently there has been a proportionate increase in the quantum of waste generated by these health care centers. Bio medical waste generated by hospitals and other healthcare settings is being managed poorly and open risk to public. It causes air pollution and many diseases to humans also., The average waste ranges between 1.5 and 2.5 Kg. per day per bed. It constitutes plastics, paper, glass, linen, metal, human flesh and organic tissues. The percentage of wastes may vary from hospital to hospital, depending upon its practices. Due to lack of infra-structure this infectious, noninfectious and hazardous waste is get mixed with municipal waste and easily comes in contact with waste workers and rag-pickers. There are many examples and ample evidences that indiscriminate management of Bio-Medical Waste could cause serious hazards to health and environment. We must understand the gravity of the issue and difference between hospital waste and general waste and must educate the healthcare people as well as common men to avoid the disaster.