Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) Towards Disposal of Unused and Expired Medications: An Assessment Among Healthcare Professionals

Abstract

Background: The rise in pharmaceutical use has led to a growing problem of unused and expired medications, which, if disposed of improperly, can harm the environment and public health. Common disposal methods, such as trash disposal and incineration, risk contaminating water sources and releasing pollutants. While countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and Sweden have established effective disposal programs, India lacks a national framework and public awareness for safe medication disposal. This study seeks to assess healthcare professionals' knowledge, attitudes, and practices on this issue, aiming to improve public awareness and advocate for better disposal practices.

Methods: This cross-sectional observational study employed a questionnaire to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding medication disposal. The study involved 100 consenting participants, including nursing officers, paramedics, and resident doctors. Participants completed a structured KAP questionnaire with 21 questions, and the data were analyzed and presented as percentages.

Results: Among participants, 67.2% reported discarding medicines in household garbage, making it the most common disposal method. Additionally, 16.7% favored offering financial incentives for returning unused medications. A significant 81.7% expressed interest in attending educational seminars or workshops on safe disposal practices. Most respondents felt that implementing take-back programs and government intervention are essential for addressing this issue effectively. 

Conclusions: The study highlights that healthcare professionals are informed about medication disposal but points to a need for better education, clearer guidelines, and more accessible disposal programs to improve health and environmental outcomes. Keywords: Expired or unused medicine,  KAP study,  Medicine disposal, Expiry date

Funding: None to declare. 

Declaration of Interest: There are no conflicts of interest.

Ethical Approval: Written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to the survey. Participation was voluntary, and participant identities were kept confidential. The study received ethical approval from the institutional ethics committee.

Keywords: Keywords- Expired or unused medicine, KAP study, Medicine disposal, Expiry date