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Pollution from solid medical waste of hospitals and its disposal mechanism: The city of Duhok as a model | ||
| Journal of University of Anbar for Humanities | ||
| Volume 2025, Issue 3, September 2025, Pages 935-957 PDF (5.19 M) | ||
| Document Type: Research Paper | ||
| DOI: 10.37653/juah.2025.157138.1329 | ||
| Author | ||
| Jiyan Sulaiman Khaleel* | ||
| University of Duhok - College of Humanities | ||
| Abstract | ||
| Aims: Medical waste is a significant source of infectious and chemical pollutants that pose serious risks to public health if mismanaged. This study seeks to examine the types of medical waste generated in hospitals across Duhok city- Iraq and to analyze its geographical distribution, with particular attention to the associated health and environmental hazards. Methodology: A descriptive-analytical approach was employed, drawing on data from multiple sources, including official hospital records, field observations, and interviews with staff responsible for medical waste management. Geographic analysis tools were utilized to map the spatial distribution of medical waste across different hospitals and to identify the areas most impacted. Results: The findings revealed that hospitals in Duhok face considerable challenges in medical waste management, primarily due to non-compliance with World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for safe and integrated waste handling. Ineffective treatment practices were noted, especially the reliance on traditional incinerators, which fail to eliminate risks adequately. Additionally, the absence of designated medical waste landfills further exacerbates environmental and public health threats. Conclusions: It can be concluded that the urgent need for reform in medical waste management across Duhok city hospitals. Current practices, which rely heavily on outdated incineration methods and lack dedicated disposal sites, significantly increase the risks of environmental contamination and public health hazards. Addressing these shortcomings requires a shift toward integrated waste management systems that comply with WHO standards, supported by investment in infrastructure, technology, and staff training. By prioritizing these measures and ensuring continuous oversight, Duhok can substantially reduce the negative impacts of medical waste, safeguard public health, and promote a cleaner and safer environment for its population. Recommendations: The study calls for the implementation of comprehensive medical waste management systems aligned with international standards. This includes the establishment of dedicated landfills, the adoption of safer and more efficient treatment technologies, and the training of personnel in proper waste-handling practices. Regular monitoring and evaluation of policies are also essential to ensure compliance and to minimize the risks associated with medical waste in Duhok hospitals. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Medical waste; waste management; hospitals; Duhok city | ||
| References | ||
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