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Mouloudj K, Njoku A, Asanza DM, Bouarar AC, Evans MA, Mouloudj S, Bouarar A. Modeling Predictors of Medication Waste Reduction Intention in Algeria: Extending the Theory of Planned Behavior. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6584. [PMID: 37623170 PMCID: PMC10454758 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20166584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 caused an increase in the demand for medications, which led to an increase in pharmaceutical waste and there is no doubt that this contributes to environmental pollution. Hence, it became necessary to search for how to protect and improve the environment by encouraging the behavior of medication waste reduction. Accordingly, this study aims to investigate the factors affecting intentions to reduce medication waste. Considering this, we develop an extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) framework by incorporating the constructs of moral obligation, environmental awareness, and medication waste risk perception. Using the convenience sampling method and based on a self-administered questionnaire, a total of 225 usable responses were collected in five Algerian cities. The results showed that positive attitudes (β = 0.316, p < 0.001), moral obligation (β = 0.291, p < 0.001), environmental awareness (β = 0.227, p < 0.001), perceived behavior control (PBC) (β = 0.151, p = 0.001), greater perceived risks (β = 0.127, p < 0.001), and subjective norm (β = 0.096, p < 0.05) significantly and positively influence the medication waste minimization intention. Furthermore, our analyses revealed that the extended TPB model explained 73.40% of the intention variance. In conclusion, we have explored the intentions, and there may be a gap between intent and actual behavior. Therefore, we recommend future studies to examine the factors affecting the actual behavior of medication waste reduction and to investigate environmental ethics and religious commitment as predictors of waste reduction intentions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamel Mouloudj
- Department of Commercial Sciences, College of Economic, University Yahia Fares of Medea, Medea 26000, Algeria; (K.M.); (A.C.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Anuli Njoku
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT 06515, USA;
| | - Dachel Martínez Asanza
- Department of Scientific-Technical Results Management, National School of Public Health (ENSAP), Havana Medical Sciences University, Havana 10800, Cuba;
| | - Ahmed Chemseddine Bouarar
- Department of Commercial Sciences, College of Economic, University Yahia Fares of Medea, Medea 26000, Algeria; (K.M.); (A.C.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Marian A. Evans
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT 06515, USA;
| | - Smail Mouloudj
- Department of Commercial Sciences, College of Economic, University Yahia Fares of Medea, Medea 26000, Algeria; (K.M.); (A.C.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Achouak Bouarar
- Department of Medicine, College of Medical, University Saad Dahleb Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria;
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Veiga A, Sousa AC, Sousa C, Oliveira M, Neto B. End-of-life management strategies of pharmaceuticals in Portuguese households. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2023; 41:235-247. [PMID: 35894451 PMCID: PMC9773154 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x221105416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The end of life of pharmaceutical products through environmentally unsafe routes is a growing concern in our society. However, the studies reported so far, apart from being limited in number, do not reflect the current management practices for the end-of-life management of pharmaceuticals. Published work lacks an in-depth analysis in focusing on the pharmaceutical waste in households. The present work focused on (1) performing a state-of-the art overview to compare worldwide studies and the results and (2) implementing a comprehensive survey in Portugal (n = 454 respondents). The results showed that the delivery to pharmacies was used by the majority of the respondents (72%), indicating a good awareness of pharmaceutical waste management issues, when compared to the reviewed studies. Statistically significant variables for the destination of end-of-use pharmaceuticals include gender, age and distance from the residence to the pharmacy (p < 0.05). Most participants believe that educating the population on existing structures of medication and packaging management is of the utmost importance to improve the national managing system. This is the first study conducted in Portugal; it includes statistical analysis of the data and reflects on the practices that should be adopted to reduce incorrect pharmaceutical waste disposal. These findings call upon the strategies to strengthen the pharmaceutical waste management programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabela Veiga
- LEPABE – Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE – Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF – Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina – Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Sousa
- Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas de Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centro de Estudos de Ciência Animal, Instituto de Ciências, Tecnologias e Agroambiente da Universidade do Porto (ICETA), Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Manuel Oliveira
- DEMM, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Belmira Neto
- LEPABE – Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE – Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- DEMM, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Luís S, Moura R, Lima ML, Poggio L, Aragonés JI, Camilo C. Judging Pharmaceutical Environmental Risk by its Cover? The Effects of Prescription Medication and Disease Severity on Environmental Risk Perception. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2022; 42:2231-2242. [PMID: 34791702 DOI: 10.1111/risa.13856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Recent wastewater analyses performed in care homes for the elderly showed high levels of water pollution resulting from pharmaceutical waste. The way people perceive the environmental risk of pharmaceuticals can contribute to reversing this problem, but the factors that influence risk perception remain relatively unknown. The aims of the study are two-fold. We first focused on exploring the levels of knowledge regarding environment/water pollution due to pharmaceutical residues from the groups responsible for prescribing (health professionals), handling (staff), and consuming pharmaceuticals (residents) in care homes for the elderly. Second, we assessed the environmental risk perception of pharmaceuticals based on two main factors: prescription medication (nonprescribed versus prescribed) and disease severity (milder versus severe disease), accounting for their level of knowledge (deficit versus sufficiency of knowledge). The study was designed based on correlational research. Data were collected in homes for the elderly located in three Southwestern European countries (N = 300), using self-report surveys. Current knowledge was perceived to be low and the need to know more was perceived to be high, across all groups. As hypothesized, results indicated that to assess the environmental risk, participants made use of information that was unrelated to pharmaceutical persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity (PBT). Prescribed pharmaceuticals and/or medication used to treat severe diseases were perceived as being more hazardous for the environment. Simple main effects analysis comparing between knowledge levels confirmed that this effect occurred mostly when participants had knowledge deficit for disease severity but not for prescription medication. These misconceptions might discourage taking an active role in reducing the impact of pharmaceutical residues in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Luís
- Centro de Investigação e de Intervenção Social, Iscte - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- HEI-Lab, Escola de Psicologia e Ciências da Vida, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita Moura
- Centro de Investigação e de Intervenção Social, Iscte - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Luísa Lima
- Centro de Investigação e de Intervenção Social, Iscte - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Lucia Poggio
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Cristina Camilo
- Centro de Investigação e de Intervenção Social, Iscte - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Magagula BK, Rampedi IT, Yessoufou K. Household Pharmaceutical Waste Management Practices in the Johannesburg Area, South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127484. [PMID: 35742731 PMCID: PMC9223455 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Pharmaceutical wastes are expected to increase given the increasing population growth rates and rapidly rising economic burden of human diseases. This challenge calls for appropriate measures for the management of such hazardous wastes. The purpose of this survey was to document and investigate existing practices for the handling, storage, and disposal of household pharmaceutical wastes (HPWs) in the Johannesburg area. Primary data were collected via online surveys with self-administered questionnaires completed by respondents. The research found that 77% (n = 286) of respondents claimed some knowledge about HPWs. Types of medicines that contributed to HPWs included painkillers or analgesics (73%, n = 270) and drugs for treating colds and flu-related illnesses (52%; n = 193). Although there were a few exceptions, the respondents generally exhibited strong disagreements with environmentally unfriendly and health-threatening disposal practices. Moreover, most participants were willing to return expired medicines to pharmacies (40.7%, n = 151), whereas only 8.6% (n = 32) opposed this solution. Awareness levels tended to vary with employment status, educational qualifications, and place of residence. However, place of residence and household size did not correlate with types of pharmaceutical waste. Additionally, the study found that education attainments significantly influenced the willingness of respondents to return pharmaceutical wastes. Finally, there were no significant differences amongst respondents in terms of waste disposal practices. Altogether, the findings suggest the need for targeted efforts to bring about sustainable waste management at a household level.
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Low-Cost and Eco-Friendly Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles Derived from Eggshell Waste for Cephalexin Removal. SEPARATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/separations9010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This work describes the hydroxyapatite nanoparticle (HAP) preparation from eggshell waste and their application as an adsorbent for Cephalexin (Ceph) antibiotic removal from aqueous solutions. Chemical precipitation with phosphoric acid was used to evaluate the feasibility of calcium oxide for HAP preparation. The structural properties of HAP were characterized by X-ray diffraction, which revealed the formation of the hydroxyapatite crystalline phase formation. In addition, transmitting electron spectroscopy showed an irregular shape with a variation in size. The impact of various experimental conditions on the removal efficiency such as the solution’s pH, contact time, HAP mass, solution temperature, and Ceph concentration were studied. Experimental data showed that HAP could remove most Ceph species from aqueous solutions within 1 h at pH = 7 with 70.70% adsorption efficiency utilizing 50 mg of the HAP. The removal process of Ceph species by HAP was kinetically investigated using various kinetic models, and the results showed the suitability of the pseudo-second-order kinetic model for the adsorption process description. Moreover, the removal process was thermodynamically investigated; the results showed that the removal was spontaneous endothermic and related to the randomness increase. The data confirmed that HAP had high efficiency in removing Ceph antibiotics from an aqueous solution.
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Nazir A, Latif S, Adil SF, Kuniyil M, Imran M, Hatshan MR, Kanwal F, Shaik B. Photocatalytic Degradation of Cefixime Trihydrate by Bismuth Ferrite Nanoparticles. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 15:213. [PMID: 35009367 PMCID: PMC8746074 DOI: 10.3390/ma15010213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The present work was carried out to synthesize bismuth ferrite (BFO) nanoparticles by combustion synthesis, and to evaluate the photocatalytic activity of synthesized bismuth ferrite nanoparticles against cefixime trihydrate. BFO nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using bismuth (III) nitrate and iron (III) nitrate by a combustion synthesis method employing different types of fuels such as maltose, succinic acid, cinnamic acid, and lactose. The effects of the different types of fuels on the morphology and size of the bismuth ferrite nanoparticles were investigated. Characterization of the as-obtained bismuth ferrite nanoparticles was carried out by different techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), N2-sorption analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy. Photoluminescence studies were also carried out for the various bismuth ferrite nanoparticles obtained. Degradation of cefixime trihydrate was investigated under sunlight to evaluate the photocatalytic properties of the bismuth ferrite nanoparticles, and it was found that the bismuth ferrite nanoparticles followed first-order degradation kinetics in solar irradiation in the degradation of antibiotic, cefixime trihydrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammara Nazir
- Centre for Inorganic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan; (A.N.); (M.I.)
| | - Shoomaila Latif
- School of Physical Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Syed Farooq Adil
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (M.K.); (M.R.H.)
| | - Mufsir Kuniyil
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (M.K.); (M.R.H.)
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Centre for Inorganic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan; (A.N.); (M.I.)
| | - Mohammad Rafe Hatshan
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (M.K.); (M.R.H.)
| | - Farah Kanwal
- Centre for Physical Chemistry, School of Chemistry, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan;
| | - Baji Shaik
- Department of Advanced Materials Engineering for Information and Electronics, Kyung Hee University, 1732 Deogyeong-daero, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si 446701, Gyeonggi-do, Korea;
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Attitudes and Considerations towards Pharmaceuticals-Related Environmental Issues among Finnish Population. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su132212930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
A number of policy recommendations identify the general public as a key participant in environmentally sustainable pharmaceutical policies. However, research into pharmaceuticals-related environmental issues from the population perspective is scarce. We studied the awareness among Finnish adults (n = 2030) of pharmaceutical residues in Finnish waterways, their perceived environmental sources, views on pharmaceuticals-related environmental issues, and their association with background characteristics. Of the respondents, 89.5% were aware of the presence of pharmaceuticals in Finnish waterways. Wastewaters from the pharmaceutical industry were most frequently, and pharmaceuticals excreted by humans least frequently, considered a major environmental source of pharmaceuticals. The vast majority of the respondents were worried about the environmental and health impact of pharmaceutical residues and emphasized issues such as the importance of environmentally sustainable actions by pharmaceutical companies and the recyclability of the pharmaceutical packaging materials. Age, education, use of prescription medicines, and environmental attitude were associated with awareness of pharmaceutical residues, while gender, age, education level, and environmental attitude were associated most frequently with pharmaceuticals-related environmental considerations. These results indicate a need for improved communication about the environmental effects of pharmaceuticals and the significance of different pharmaceutical emission sources in order to promote a more environmentally friendly, effective pharmaceutical policy.
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Mahara G, Wu Z, Ge Q, Li Z, Zhang J. Assessment on the Impact on Human Health, Environment, Water and Soil by Disposing Household Expired Drugs: A Cross-Sectional Study in China. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:1711-1721. [PMID: 33935525 PMCID: PMC8079354 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s301910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The household expired drugs disposal has been a huge public issue in many countries, including China, which may affect various side and toxic effects on human health and environment, water resources, and soil too. This paper explores the knowledge, attitude, and practice of Guangzhou city residents regarding household expired drugs and their effect on human health and provided the scientific pieces of evidence to carry out the long-term recovery mechanism for expired medicines. Methods An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-structured questionnaire. Descriptive analysis, including univariate and unconditional logistic regression models, was carried out to analyze the data. Results A total of 613 community residents with a 99.4% response rate enrolled for the study. More than half 60.2% of residents stated that expired drugs pollute the environment, soil, and water resources, where 81.2% of respondents knew that it would produce side effects or toxic effects. However, still, 71.6% of respondents disposed of directly into the trash bin or sink, and, only 24.8% had good practice that they use a designed recycling bin. Likewise, only 8.3% of respondents placed expired drugs into collection points nearly 3-5 times in a year, while 65.1% of participants never disposed of in the collection point, which found a worse practice. Conclusion Overall, the knowledge, attitude, and practice of Guangzhou residents regarding household expired drugs disposal were not ideal. To improve the resident's awareness about family expired drugs disposal, ensure the financial support for the recycling process, establish an accessible and acceptable recycling point, and introduce relevant laws and regulations for the long-term mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gehendra Mahara
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhihong Wu
- Research Center, Baiyunshan Hejigong Pharmaceutical Factory, Guangzhou Baiyunshan Pharmaceutical Holdings Co., Ltd, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Ge
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiwei Li
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinxin Zhang
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
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Khuntia HK, Janardhana N, Chanakya HN. Household discharge of chemical products and its classification based on anaerobic biodegradability. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2021; 193:39. [PMID: 33409667 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-020-08835-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic household chemical products (HCP) are used in various household activities. An average urban household was estimated to consume ~ 3 kg HCP per month while discarding 212-387 mg/L HCP in sewage comprising > 265 different chemical compounds. The high sorption properties of HCP and their antimicrobial resistance lead to their long-term persistence in the environment. The intrusion of HCPs and their breakdown products into food chain causes detrimental effects on health and ecology. HCPs comprise mostly of a mixture of xenobiotics, organic and inorganic compounds resulting in an impaired biodegradation. Yet, the biodegradability of HCPs is seldom assessed. Therefore, this research proposes a modified Gompertz model approach to analyze BMP data in order to classify commercially available HCPs into seven groups based on the observed levels of recalcitrance and is in turn coined "Anaerobic Biodegradability Index" (ABI, beginning from ABI-VI to ABI-0 wherein ABI-VI represents the highest degradability and ABI-0 the least). This approach emulates "Energy-Star" ratings of electrical appliances classified based on electrical efficiency. Results of such a classification indicated that HCPs containing ≥ 10% anionic surfactants such as laundry detergents, handwash gel, dishwasher chemicals, and creosote surface cleaner, exhibit lowered anaerobic degradability and were therefore categorized between ABI-0 and ABI-II. Whereas the highly degradable HCP such as toothpaste, shower gel, and hair shampoo were categorized in ABI-V and ABI-VI categories. We perceive that the weightages and concentrations can be used in the future to define the capability of various wastewater treatment systems and their tolerance to various ABI classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu Kumar Khuntia
- Centre for Sustainable Technologies, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, 560012, India.
| | - Naveen Janardhana
- Centre for Sustainable Technologies, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, 560012, India
| | - H N Chanakya
- Centre for Sustainable Technologies, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, 560012, India
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Intentions to "Reuse" Medication in the Future Modelled and Measured Using the Theory of Planned Behavior. PHARMACY 2020; 8:pharmacy8040213. [PMID: 33198347 PMCID: PMC7712992 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy8040213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A range of pro-environmental behaviors are recognized, promoted, and investigated, but urgent action is also needed to tackle the direct and indirect environmental impact of medication waste. One solution is to reissue medicines, returned unused to pharmacies (i.e., reuse medicines). Yet, if medicines reuse is to be formally introduced in the UK, it is imperative also to understand people's willingness to take part in such a scheme and importantly, the underpinning drivers. This study aimed to develop, validate, and evaluate a Theory of Planned Behavior model aimed at predicting medicines reuse behavioral intentions. METHODS The behavior of interest, medicines reuse, was defined according to its Target, Action, Context, and Time. Then themes from an existing qualitative study were used in order to draft, validate and pilot a Theory of Planned Behavior-based questionnaire before its completion by a representative sample (n = 1003) of participants from across the UK. RESULTS The majority expressed pro-medicines reuse intentions. The three direct measures accounted for 73.4% of the variance in relation to people's intention to reuse medicines in the future, which was statistically significant at p < 0.001. People's specific beliefs about medicines reuse and how they evaluate other people's expectations of them had a substantial impact on their intentions to reuse medication in the future, mediated in an intricate way via attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control (PBC). CONCLUSIONS This study shows how people could embrace medicines reuse via practical measures that illustrate the safety and quality assurance of reissued medicines, educational interventions that bolster beliefs about the pro-environmental benefits, and norm-based interventions encouraging doctors and pharmacists to endorse the practice. The findings add to the emerging work on medicines reuse and, significantly, provide a theoretical framework to guide policymakers and other organizations looking to decrease the impact of medication waste through medicines reuse schemes.
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Foon PY, Ganesan Y, Iranmanesh M, Foroughi B. Understanding the behavioural intention to dispose of unused medicines: an extension of the theory of planned behaviour. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:28030-28041. [PMID: 32405948 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09125-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study examined behavioural intention to dispose of unused medicines using a comprehensive model integrating the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), with knowledge as a driver of personal norms; attitudes, personal norms, and perceived busyness as additional drivers of behavioural intention; and perceived convenience as a moderator. The model was tested with data collected from 204 respondents using the partial least squares technique. Knowledge about the proper disposal of unused medicines was recognized as a strong predictor of personal norms and attitudes towards proper disposal of waste medications. The results showed that attitudes, personal norms, perceived busyness, and perceived behavioural control have significant effects on intention to dispose of unused medicines. Furthermore, perceived convenience moderates the impacts of attitude, personal norms, and perceived behavioural control on intention to dispose of unused medicines. The extended TPB explained 55.7% of the variance of intention to dispose of unused medicines properly. Our results indicate the importance of integrating additional variables into the TPB to enhance its explanatory power in predicting behavioural intention. The results suggest to governments that in order to implement planned programs for proper collection and destruction of waste medication, a plan is needed to enhance public knowledge on the impacts of improper medication waste disposal on the environment, and also that collection points should become accessible for anyone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phooi Yut Foon
- Graduate School of Business, University Science Malaysia (USM), 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Yuvaraj Ganesan
- Graduate School of Business, University Science Malaysia (USM), 11800, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Iranmanesh
- School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University (ECU), Joondalup, 6027, Australia.
| | - Behzad Foroughi
- Department of International Business Administration, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
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Millarhouse AZ, Vatovec C, Niles MT, Ivakhiv A. What's in Your Body of Water? A Pilot Study Using Metaphoric Framing to Reduce the Psychological Distance in Pharmaceutical Pollution Risk Communication. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2020; 65:630-641. [PMID: 32222782 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-020-01275-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Aquatic pharmaceutical pollution poses ecotoxicological risks to the environment and human health. Consumer pharmaceutical use and disposal behaviors represent a significant source of pharmaceutical compounds in surface waters, and communication strategies are needed to promote pro-environmental behaviors to reduce pharmaceutical pollution. Designing effective risk communication campaigns requires an understanding of public perceptions of aquatic pharmaceutical pollution. The purpose of this mixed-methods pilot study was to test the efficacy of using theories from cognitive linguistics and psychology (conceptual metaphor theory and construal level theory of psychological distance, respectively) in using metaphors in pharmaceutical pollution risk communication. Our methods included a randomized cross-over design in which a convenience sample of university students (n = 20) viewed visual representations of pharmaceutical pollution risks (metaphor based and non-metaphor). We used cognitive interviewing methods to assess metaphor use on participants understanding of pharmaceutical pollution risk, concern about this risk, and willingness to act. Results indicate that participants preferred the metaphorically-framed visual, and that the use of metaphor significantly reduced participants' perceived social and geographic distance of pharmaceutical pollution risk, suggesting a relationship between metaphoric framing and psychological distance warranting additional research. Theoretical and practical implications of metaphor use in risk communications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Z Millarhouse
- Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, 81 Carrigan Dr., Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Christine Vatovec
- Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, 303 Aiken Center, 81 Carrigan Dr., Burlington, VT, 05405, USA.
| | - Meredith T Niles
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Vermont, 350 MLS Carrigan Wing, 81 Carrigan Dr., Burlington, VT, 05405, USA
| | - Adrian Ivakhiv
- Professor of Environmental Thought and Culture, Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, 211 Bittersweet House, 153 South Prospect St., Burlington, VT, 05401, USA
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Paut Kusturica M, Golocorbin-Kon S, Ostojic T, Kresoja M, Milovic M, Horvat O, Dugandzija T, Davidovac N, Vasic A, Tomas A. Consumer willingness to pay for a pharmaceutical disposal program in Serbia: A double hurdle modeling approach. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 104:246-253. [PMID: 31986446 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2020.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Proper collection and disposal of pharmaceutical waste from households can reduce the negative influence of medicines on the environment. The aim of this paper is to examine the current methods of disposal of unused medicines from households, as well as the willingness of Serbian residents to participate and bear the costs of an organized collection program. Moreover, this research aims to define factors contributing to an individual's willingness to participate and pay for a medicine collection program. The survey included randomly selected patients older than 18 years visiting private pharmacies in the four largest Serbian cities. The questionnaire included information regarding the presence of unwanted medicines within the household, general medicine disposal practices, the likelihood to participate in a medicine take-back program, willingness to pay for a medicine disposal program (per prescription and per visit), importance to the environment, and demographic variables from participants. Approximately 80% of surveyed respondents are very or somewhat likely to participate, however less than half of the respondents are willing to pay for the collection of their unused medicines. The factors that influenced willingness to participate are environmental awareness and income, while the factors affecting willingness to pay, are previously received advice about proper disposal, education level, number of unwanted medicines in the household and gender. The majority of Serbian people dispose unused medicines improperly, mostly into household garbage. Well-organized and easily accessible collection programs are essential in order to enable the general public to return unused medicines for proper disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Paut Kusturica
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia.
| | | | - Tijana Ostojic
- Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Serbia
| | | | - Marko Milovic
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Olga Horvat
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Tihomir Dugandzija
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | | | | | - Ana Tomas
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
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de Oliveira M, Frihling BEF, Velasques J, Filho FJCM, Cavalheri PS, Migliolo L. Pharmaceuticals residues and xenobiotics contaminants: Occurrence, analytical techniques and sustainable alternatives for wastewater treatment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 705:135568. [PMID: 31846817 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Emerging contaminants are increasingly present in the environment, and their appearance on both the environment and health of living beings are still poorly understood by society. Conventional sewage treatment facilities that are under validity and were designed years ago are not developed to remove pharmaceutical compounds, their main focus is organic and bacteriological removal. Pharmaceutical residues are associated directly with quantitative production aspects as well as inadequate waste management policies. Persistent classes of emerging compounds such as xenobiotics present molecules whose physicochemical properties such as small molecular size, ionizability, water solubility, lipophilicity, polarity and volatility make degradability, identification and quantification of these complex compounds difficult. Based on research results showing that there is a possibility of risk to human and environmental health the presence of these compounds in the environment this article aimed to review the main pharmaceutical and xenobiotic residues present in the environment, as well as to present the most common methodologies used. The most commonly used analytical methods for identifying these compounds were HPLC and Gas Chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry with potential for characterize complex substances in the environment with low concentrations. An alternative and low-cost technology for emerging compound treatment demonstrated in the literature with a satisfactory performance for several types of sewage such as domestic sewage, wastewater and agroindustrial, was the Wetlands Constructed. The study was able to identify the main compounds that are being found in the environment and identify the most used analytical methods to identify and quantify these compounds, bringing some alternatives combining technologies for the treatment of compounds. Environmental contamination is eminent, since the production of emerging compounds aims to increase along with technological development. This demonstrates the need to explore and aggregate sewage treatment technologies to reduce or prevent the deposition of these compounds into the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milina de Oliveira
- Departamento de Engenharia Sanitária e Ambiental, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | | | - Jannaina Velasques
- Centro de Formação em Ciências Agroflorestais, Universidade Federal do Sul da Bahia, Itabuna, Brazil
| | - Fernando Jorge Corrêa Magalhães Filho
- Departamento de Engenharia Sanitária e Ambiental, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Ambientais e Sustentabilidade Agropecuária, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | | | - Ludovico Migliolo
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil.
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Constantino VM, Fregonesi BM, Tonani KADA, Zagui GS, Toninato APC, Nonose ERDS, Fabriz LA, Segura-Muñoz SI. Estoque e descarte de medicamentos no domicílio: uma revisão sistemática. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2020; 25:585-594. [DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232020252.10882018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a evidência científica nacional e internacional existente sobre o motivo do estoque e a forma de descarte dos medicamentos no domicílio. Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática da literatura de 2001 a 2016 nas bases de dados PubMed, Lilacs e Elsevier’s Scopus Database, utilizando os seguintes unitermos: "Disposal of medicines in household", "Disposal of expired drugs", "Residential expired drugs", "Management of expired medications in household". Foram selecionados 33 estudos originais após aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Os estudos analisados demonstraram que os principais motivos de estoque no domicílio foram: automedicação; guarda para uso futuro e sobras de tratamentos anteriores. E quanto ao descarte dos medicamentos, prevalecem práticas inadequadas, como descarte no lixo comum e na rede de esgoto. Alguns países têm adotado programas de orientação sobre o armazenamento e o descarte correto, no entanto, foi apenas encontrado um estudo que descreve um programa nacional gratuito, para orientar essas práticas. A partir das evidências cientificas verificou-se a importância do incentivo para a elaboração e a implementação de políticas públicas voltadas para o uso e descarte adequado de medicamentos no domicílio.
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16
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Zhang L, Yue X, Liu J, Feng J, Zhang X, Zhang C, Li R, Fan C. Facile synthesis of Bi5O7Br/BiOBr 2D/3D heterojunction as efficient visible-light-driven photocatalyst for pharmaceutical organic degradation. Sep Purif Technol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2019.115917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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17
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Antimicrobials and Antimicrobial Resistance in the Environment and Its Remediation: A Global One Health Perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16234614. [PMID: 31757109 PMCID: PMC6926838 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16234614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Bettington E, Spinks J, Kelly F, Gallardo-Godoy A, Nghiem S, Wheeler AJ. When is a medicine unwanted, how is it disposed, and how might safe disposal be promoted? Insights from the Australian population. AUST HEALTH REV 2019; 42:709-717. [PMID: 29253357 DOI: 10.1071/ah16296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective The aim of the present study was to explore disposal practices of unwanted medicines in a representative sample of Australian adults, compare this with previous household waste surveys and explore awareness of the National Return and Disposal of Unwanted Medicines (RUM) Project. Methods A 10-min online survey was developed, piloted and conducted with an existing research panel of adult individuals. Survey questions recorded demographics, the presence of unwanted medicines in the home, medicine disposal practices and concerns about unwanted medicines. Descriptive statistical analyses and rank-ordered logit regression were conducted. Results Sixty per cent of 4302 respondents reported having unwanted medicines in their household. Medicines were primarily kept just in case they were needed again and one-third of these medicines were expired. Two-thirds of respondents disposed of medicines with the household garbage and approximately one-quarter poured medicines down the drain. Only 17.6% of respondents had heard of the RUM Project, although, once informed, 91.7% stated that they would use it. Respondents ranked the risk of unintended ingestion as the most important public health message for future social marketing campaigns. Conclusions Respondents were largely unaware of the RUM Project, yet were willing to use it once informed. Limited awareness could lead to environmental or public health risks, and targeted information campaigns are needed. What is known about the topic? There is a growing international evidence base on how people dispose of unwanted medicines and the negative consequences, particularly the environmental effects of inappropriate disposal. Although insight into variation in disposal methods is increasing, knowledge of how people perceive risks and awareness of inappropriate disposal methods is more limited. What does this paper add? This study provides evidence of inappropriate medicines disposal and potential stockpiling of medicines in Australian households that could contribute to environmental and/or public health risks. It also reveals possible trends towards a higher frequency of inappropriate disposal practices in the Australian context. Insights into respondents' perceptions of associated risks and awareness of a national scheme for appropriate disposal of medicines have not previously been reported. What are the implications for practitioners? The findings of the present study provide important insights for all health professionals as stakeholders in the quality use of medicines. It is important for those health professionals who assist consumers to manage their medicines to have strategies in place that routinely identify potential stockpiling and inform consumers about appropriate methods of medicines disposal. Although the findings of this study are specific to the Australian context, they may usefully inform policy, public health campaigns and the individual practices of health professionals and other stakeholders in promoting the quality use of medicines nationally and internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Bettington
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Qld 4111, Australia.
| | - Jean Spinks
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Rd, Nathan, Qld 4111, Australia.
| | - Fiona Kelly
- School of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Griffith University, Parklands Dr, Southport, Qld 4222, Australia. Email
| | - Alejandra Gallardo-Godoy
- School of Human Services and Social Work, Griffith University, University Dr, Meadowbrook, Qld 4131, Australia. Email
| | - Son Nghiem
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Ave, Kelvin Grove, Qld 4059, Australia. Email
| | - Amanda J Wheeler
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, G40 Griffith Health Centre, Level 8.86, Southport, Qld 4222, Australia. Email
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Quadra GR, Silva PSA, Paranaíba JR, Josué IIP, Souza H, Costa R, Fernandez M, Vilas-Boas J, Roland F. Investigation of medicines consumption and disposal in Brazil: A study case in a developing country. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 671:505-509. [PMID: 30933805 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.03.334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The incorrect disposal of medicines can be harmful to the environment. Here, we aim to understand the consumption and disposal of medicines in Brazil using online forms. 64% of the respondents have the habit to self-medicate. 66% of respondents dispose the disused or expired medicines in the garbage. 71.9% of respondents never receive any information about correct disposal of medicines. 95.2% of respondents believe that residues of medicines can be harmful to the environment. Environmental education can provide information to the population and help to mitigate pharmaceuticals pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle R Quadra
- Laboratório de Ecologia Aquática, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - Pâmela S A Silva
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - José R Paranaíba
- Laboratório de Ecologia Aquática, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Iollanda I P Josué
- Laboratório de Limnologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-590, Brazil
| | - Helena Souza
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Meio Ambiente, Universidade Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, 20550-900, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Costa
- Programa de Pós-Graduaçãoem Desenvolvimento e Meiio Ambiente, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, 59064-741, Brazil
| | - Marcos Fernandez
- Laboratório de Ecotoxicologia Marinha, Departamento de Oceanografia Química, Universidade Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, 20550-900, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Vilas-Boas
- Laboratório de Protozoologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, 36036-900, Brazil
| | - Fábio Roland
- Laboratório de Ecologia Aquática, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, 36036-900, Brazil
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20
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Ghoul I, Debbache N, Dekkiche BA, Seraghni N, Sehili T, Marín Z, Santaballa JA, Canle M. Fe(III)-citrate enhanced sunlight-driven photocatalysis of aqueous Carbamazepine. J Photochem Photobiol A Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochem.2019.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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21
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Abstract
Safe disposal of expired or unused medications is essential for individual and environmental safety, yet many patients report not having received education on proper medication disposal. Unused medications in homes and improper medication disposal create various risks including intentional or accidental misuse, overdose, addiction in humans, as well as toxic effects in pets. As part of their community health clinical experience, senior nursing students from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing visited patients of a large home care and hospice agency in a Philadelphia suburb throughout the semester. A survey conducted with a small number (N = 15) of home care patients suggested the majority of patients had inadequate knowledge about safe medication disposal. The nursing students created and presented a tip sheet on safe medication disposal and a list of local prescription medication disposal sites to home care patients. They also obtained and provided medication disposal bags for patients and caregivers who were unable to get to medication disposal sites.
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22
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Pedrazzani R, Bertanza G, Brnardić I, Cetecioglu Z, Dries J, Dvarionienė J, García-Fernández AJ, Langenhoff A, Libralato G, Lofrano G, Škrbić B, Martínez-López E, Meriç S, Pavlović DM, Papa M, Schröder P, Tsagarakis KP, Vogelsang C. Opinion paper about organic trace pollutants in wastewater: Toxicity assessment in a European perspective. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 651:3202-3221. [PMID: 30463169 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Pedrazzani
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 38 and University Research Center "Integrated Models for Prevention and Protection in Environmental and Occupational Health", University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Bertanza
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 43 and University Research Center "Integrated Models for Prevention and Protection in Environmental and Occupational Health", University of Brescia, 25123, Italy.
| | - Ivan Brnardić
- Faculty of Metallurgy, University of Zagreb, Aleja narodnih heroja 3, 44103 Sisak, Croatia.
| | - Zeynep Cetecioglu
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Jan Dries
- Faculty of Applied Engineering, University of Antwerp, Salesianenlaan 90, 2660 Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Jolanta Dvarionienė
- Kaunas University of Technology, Institute of Environmental Engineering, Gedimino str. 50, 44239 Kaunas, Lithuania.
| | - Antonio J García-Fernández
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100, Campus of Espinardo, Spain.
| | - Alette Langenhoff
- Department of Environmental Technology, Wageningen University & Research, Bornse Weilanden 9, 6708, WG, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Giovanni Libralato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia ed. 7, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Giusy Lofrano
- Department of Chemistry and Biology "A. Zambelli", University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132-84084 Fisciano, Italy.
| | - Biljana Škrbić
- Faculty of Technology, University of Novi Sad, Bulevar cara Lazara 1, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia.
| | - Emma Martínez-López
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100, Campus of Espinardo, Spain.
| | - Süreyya Meriç
- Çorlu Engineering Faculty, Environmental Engineering Department, Namik Kemal University, Çorlu, 59860, Tekirdağ, Turkey.
| | - Dragana Mutavdžić Pavlović
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, Marulićev trg 19, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Matteo Papa
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, University of Brescia, Via Branze, 43 and University Research Center "Integrated Models for Prevention and Protection in Environmental and Occupational Health", University of Brescia, 25123, Italy.
| | - Peter Schröder
- Helmholtz-Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Ingolstaedter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Konstantinos P Tsagarakis
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Democritus University of Thrace, Vas. Sofias 12, 67100 Xanthi, Greece.
| | - Christian Vogelsang
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Gaustadalleen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway.
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Detection of Antibiotics in Drinking Water Treatment Plants in Baghdad City, Iraq. ADVANCES IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2019. [DOI: 10.1155/2019/7851354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistence of antibiotics in the aquatic environment has raised concerns regarding their potential influence on potable water quality and human health. This study analyzes the presence of antibiotics in potable water from two treatment plants in Baghdad City. The collected samples were separated using a solid-phase extraction method with hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) cartridge before being analyzed. The detected antibiotics in the raw and finished drinking water were analyzed and assessed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), with fluorometric detector and UV detector. The results confirmed that different antibiotics including fluoroquinolones andB-lactams were detected in the raw and finished water. The most frequently detected antibiotics were ciprofloxacin with highest concentration of 1.270 μg L−1in the raw water of Al-Wihda plant, whereas the highest concentration of levofloxacin was 0.177 μg L−1, while amoxicillin was not detected in this plant. In contrast, ciprofloxacin was found in both raw water and finished water of Al-Rasheed plant and recorded highest concentration of 1.344 and 1.312 μg L−1, respectively. Moreover, the residual amount of levofloxacin in the raw water was up to 0.414 μg L−1, whereas amoxicillin was shown to be the most detectable drug in the raw water of Al-Rasheed plant, with a concentration of 1.50 μg L−1. The results of this study revealed the existence of antibiotic drugs in raw and finished water and should be included in the Iraqi standard for drinking water quality assessment.
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Omae T, Yotani N, Sakashita A, Yoshiyuki K. Number of Unused Medications at the Time of Last Admission: A Prospective Observational Study in a Single Palliative Care Unit. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2018; 35:1498-1504. [PMID: 29938522 DOI: 10.1177/1049909118784004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Unused medications (UM) are an important issue, with the waste associated with UM a burden to the health-care system. The aims of this study were to clarify the amount and costs of UM in patients with advanced cancer at the time of their last admission to a palliative care unit and to explore the factors contributing to the cost of UM and how patients dealt with UM. METHODS: A prospective observational study was conducted in single palliative care unit. Unused medications were classified into 6 categories and the number and cost of UM by category calculated per patient. Patients were classified into 2 cost groups (high and low) based on the total cost of UM, and the number and cost of UM by category were compared between these 2 groups. RESULTS: Of 194 consecutive hospitalized patients, data were analyzed for 90. The mean number and cost of UM per patient was 440 and US$301, respectively. Opioids accounted for 47% of the cost of UM. Comparing costs by UM category, the proportion of opioids (51% vs 21%; P < .0001) and oral anticancer drugs (14% vs 3%; P = .02) was higher in the high- than in the low-cost group. CONCLUSION: Based on the results of the present study, the estimated annual waste cost of UM for patients with cancer who died in Japan was approximately US$110 million. Interventions to educate patients regarding UM and to eliminate barriers to opioid use may help reduce the cost of UM, particularly opioids and anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahito Omae
- 1 Department of Palliative Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Yotani
- 2 Department of Palliative Medicine, National Center for Child Health and Development, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akihiro Sakashita
- 1 Department of Palliative Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Kizawa Yoshiyuki
- 1 Department of Palliative Medicine, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
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Bettington E, Spinks J, Kelly F, Wheeler AJ. Returning unwanted medicines to pharmacies: prescribing to reduce waste. Aust Prescr 2018; 41:78-81. [PMID: 29922002 DOI: 10.18773/austprescr.2018.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Bettington
- Centre for Applied Health Economics School of Medicine Griffith University Brisbane.,Menzies Health Institute Queensland Griffith University Brisbane
| | - Jean Spinks
- Centre for Applied Health Economics School of Medicine Griffith University Brisbane.,Menzies Health Institute Queensland Griffith University Brisbane
| | - Fiona Kelly
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland Griffith University Brisbane.,School of Pharmacy Griffith University Gold Coast Queensland
| | - Amanda J Wheeler
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland Griffith University Brisbane
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Vitorino HA, Ortega P, Pastrana Alta RY, Zanotto FP, Espósito BP. Evaluation of iron loading in four types of hepatopancreatic cells of the mangrove crab Ucides cordatus using ferrocene derivatives and iron supplements. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:15962-15970. [PMID: 29589242 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1819-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The mangrove crab Ucides cordatus is a bioindicator of aquatic contamination. In this work, the iron availability and redox activity of saccharide-coated mineral iron supplements (for both human and veterinary use) and ferrocene derivatives in Saline Ucides Buffer (SUB) medium were assessed. The transport of these metallodrugs by four different hepatopancreatic cell types (embryonic (E), resorptive (R), fibrillar (F), and blister (B)) of U. cordatus were measured. Organic coated iron minerals (iron supplements) were stable against strong chelators (calcein and transferrin). Ascorbic acid efficiently mediated the release of iron only from ferrocene compounds, leading to redox-active species. Ferrous iron and iron supplements were efficient in loading iron to all hepatopancreatic cell types. In contrast, ferrocene derivatives were loaded only in F and B cell types. Acute exposition to the iron compounds resulted in cell viability of 70-95%, and to intracellular iron levels as high as 0.40 μmol L-1 depending upon the compound and the cell line. The easiness that iron from iron metallodrugs was loaded/transported into U. cordatus hepatopancreatic cells reinforces a cautionary approach to the widespread disposal and use of highly bioavailable iron species as far as the long-term environmental welfare is concerned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector Aguilar Vitorino
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil.
| | - Priscila Ortega
- Department of Physiology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, Rua do Matão, Travessa 14, 321, São Paulo, SP, 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Roxana Y Pastrana Alta
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Flavia Pinheiro Zanotto
- Department of Physiology, Biosciences Institute, University of São Paulo, Rua do Matão, Travessa 14, 321, São Paulo, SP, 05508-090, Brazil
| | - Breno Pannia Espósito
- Department of Fundamental Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
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Noorhosseini SA, Allahyari MS, Damalas CA, Moghaddam SS. RETRACTED: Public environmental awareness of water pollution from urban growth: The case of Zarjub and Goharrud rivers in Rasht, Iran. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 599-600:2019-2025. [PMID: 28558423 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.05.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Revised: 05/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editors-in-Chief. After a thorough investigation, the Editors have concluded that the acceptance of this article was based upon the positive advice of three illegitimate reviewer reports. The reports were submitted from email accounts which were provided by the corresponding author C.A. Damalas as suggested reviewers during the submission of the article. Although purportedly real reviewer accounts, the Editors have concluded that these were not of appropriate, independent reviewers. This manipulation of the peer-review process represents a clear violation of the fundamentals of peer review, our publishing policies, and publishing ethics standards. Apologies are offered to the reviewers whose identity was assumed and to the readers of the journal that this deception was not detected during the submission process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece.
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Pereira AL, de Vasconcelos Barros RT, Pereira SR. Pharmacopollution and Household Waste Medicine (HWM): how reverse logistics is environmentally important to Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:24061-24075. [PMID: 28929406 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0097-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacopollution is a public health and environmental outcome of some active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDC) dispersed through water and/or soil. Its most important sources are the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare facilities (e.g., hospitals), livestock, aquaculture, and households (patients' excretion and littering). The last source is the focus of this article. Research questions are "What is the Household Waste Medicine (HWM) phenomenon?", "How HWM and pharmacopollution are related?", and "Why is a reverse logistic system necessary for HWM in Brazil?" This article followed the seven steps proposed by Rother (2007) for a systematic review based on the Cochrane Handbook and the National Health Service (NHS) Center for Reviews Dissemination (CDR) Report. The HWM phenomenon brings many environmental, public health, and, social challenges. The insufficient data is a real challenge to assessing potential human health risks and API concentrations. Therefore, the hazard of long-term exposure to low concentrations of pharmacopollutants and the combined effects of API mixtures is still uncertain. HWM are strongly related to pharmacopollution, as this review shows. The Brazilian HWM case is remarkable because it is the fourth pharmaceutical market (US$ 65,971 billion), with a wide number of private pharmacies and drugstores (3.3: 10,000 pharmacy/inhabitants), self-medication habits, and no national take-back program. The HWM generation is estimated in 56.6 g/per capita, or 10,800 t/year. The absence of a reverse logistics for HWM can lead to serious environmental and public health challenges. The sector agreement for HWM is currently under public consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Luiz Pereira
- Secretaria de Estado de Saúde de Minas Gerais (SESMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
| | | | - Sandra Rosa Pereira
- Inspetoria de Fiscalização de Grandes Empresas (IFEP / SUL), Vitoria da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil
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AlAzmi A, AlHamdan H, Abualezz R, Bahadig F, Abonofal N, Osman M. Patients' Knowledge and Attitude toward the Disposal of Medications. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS 2017; 2017:8516741. [PMID: 29130019 PMCID: PMC5654249 DOI: 10.1155/2017/8516741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Revised: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Safe disposal of medications is of high concern as malpractice may lead to harmful consequences such as undesirable effects, prescription drug abuse, overstocking, self-medication, accidental overdose, and even death. There is a lack of uniform and nationwide guidance on how patients should safely dispose their leftover medications. This study aims to assess patients' knowledge and attitude regarding the disposal of medications. METHOD This research is a cross-sectional study. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from various outpatient pharmaceutical services in King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC), Jeddah. RESULTS The study revealed that 73% of the respondents throw the medications in the trash, 14% return the medications to a pharmacy, 5% never dispose them, and 3% donate the medications to a friend or charity centers. More than 80% of the respondents never received any information or advice from healthcare providers about safe and proper disposal of medications. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that there is an immediate requirement for the establishment of collaborative and uniform guidelines for the safe disposal of leftover medications. A policy for drug donation needs to be included in routine patient education as well as educational and collective programs for the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aeshah AlAzmi
- Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC 6255), Pharmaceutical Care Services Department, P.O. Box 9515, Jeddah 21423, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hani AlHamdan
- Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC 6255), Pharmaceutical Care Services Department, P.O. Box 9515, Jeddah 21423, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayf Abualezz
- Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), Prince Mohamed Bin Abdulaziz Hospital, Pharmaceutical Care Services Department, P.O. Box 40740, Madinah 41511, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faiz Bahadig
- Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC 6255), Pharmaceutical Care Services Department, P.O. Box 9515, Jeddah 21423, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noha Abonofal
- Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC 6255), Pharmaceutical Care Services Department, P.O. Box 9515, Jeddah 21423, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Osman
- Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC 6255), Pharmaceutical Care Services Department, P.O. Box 9515, Jeddah 21423, Saudi Arabia
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Singleton JA, Lau ETL, Nissen LM. Waiter, there is a drug in my soup - using Leximancer ® to explore antecedents to pro-environmental behaviours in the hospital pharmacy workplace. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2017; 26:341-350. [PMID: 29972612 DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE/S The aim of this study was to explore Queensland hospital pharmacists' and pharmacy technicians' knowledge and understanding of the impact of pharmaceuticals on the environment and the handling of pharmaceutical waste. METHODS This study followed a mixed methods research design. Purposive sampling techniques were used to recruit 64 hospital pharmacists and pharmacy technicians working in five public and private hospitals, in metropolitan and regional Queensland, Australia. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Qualitative data were analysed using both the text analytics using descriptive statistics. KEY FINDINGS Lack of environmental knowledge regarding the impact of pharmaceuticals on the environment and lack of understanding of systems thinking concepts (that all living things are part of the one environment or system, and therefore any negative impacts on the environment will ultimately have negative impacts on human health) were the key findings of this research. Interviewees expressed concern, but most expressed minimal personal concern, about the impact of pharmaceuticals entering the environment. Most interviewees were unsure as to best practice methods for the disposal of pharmaceutical waste, and by complying with hospital policy assumed appropriate disposal occurred. CONCLUSION Before the pharmacy profession can take up a leadership role in the more sustainable use of pharmaceuticals, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians require environmental information regarding the negative impacts of pharmaceuticals on the environment, and education on systems thinking to enable them to understand that any negative impacts on the environment will ultimately have negative impacts on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith A Singleton
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Esther T L Lau
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Lisa M Nissen
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia.,Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
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Koçoğlu ES, Bakırdere S, Keyf S. A Novel Liquid-Liquid Extraction for the Determination of Sertraline in Tap Water and Waste Water at Trace Levels by GC-MS. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2017; 99:354-359. [PMID: 28555336 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-017-2118-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A simple, green and fast analytical method was developed for the determination of sertraline in tap and waste water samples at trace levels by using supportive liquid-liquid extraction with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Different parameters affecting extraction efficiency such as types and volumes of extraction and supporter solvents, extraction period, salt type and amount were optimized to get lower detection limits. Ethyl acetate was selected as optimum extraction solvent. In order to improve the precision, anthracene-D10 was used as an internal standard. The calibration plot of sertraline was linear from 1.0 to 1000 ng/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.999. The limit of detection value under the optimum conditions was found to be 0.43 ng/mL. In real sample measurements, spiking experiments were performed to check the reliability of the method for these matrices. The spiking experiments yielded satisfactory recoveries of 91.19 ± 2.48%, 90.48 ± 5.19% and 95.46 ± 6.56% for 100, 250 and 500 ng/mL sertraline for tap water, and 85.80 ± 2.15% and 92.43 ± 4.02% for 250 and 500 ng/mL sertraline for waste water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Seda Koçoğlu
- Chemical Engineering Department, Faculty of Chemistry and Metallurgical Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, 34210, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sezgin Bakırdere
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Art and Science, Yıldız Technical University, 34210, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Seyfullah Keyf
- Chemical Engineering Department, Faculty of Chemistry and Metallurgical Engineering, Yıldız Technical University, 34210, Istanbul, Turkey
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Wee SY, Aris AZ. Endocrine disrupting compounds in drinking water supply system and human health risk implication. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2017; 106:207-233. [PMID: 28552550 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Revised: 04/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
To date, experimental and epidemiological evidence of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) adversely affecting human and animal populations has been widely debated. Notably, human health risk assessment is required for risk mitigation. The lack of human health risk assessment and management may thus unreliably regulate the quality of water resources and efficiency of treatment processes. Therefore, drinking water supply systems (DWSSs) may be still unwarranted in assuring safe access to potable drinking water. Drinking water supply, such as tap water, is an additional and crucial route of human exposure to the health risks associated with EDCs. A holistic system, incorporating continuous research in DWSS monitoring and management using multi-barrier approach, is proposed as a preventive measure to reduce human exposure to the risks associated with EDCs through drinking water consumption. The occurrence of EDCs in DWSSs and corresponding human health risk implications are analyzed using the Needs, Approaches, Benefits, and Challenges (NABC) method. Therefore, this review may act as a supportive tool in protecting human health and environmental quality from EDCs, which is essential for decision-making regarding environmental monitoring and management purposes. Subsequently, the public could have sustainable access to safer and more reliable drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Yee Wee
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Zaharin Aris
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Alhamad H, Patel N, Donyai P. How do people conceptualise the reuse of medicines? An interview study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2017; 26:232-241. [PMID: 28795460 PMCID: PMC5969265 DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To capture people's beliefs about medicines reuse and to map the determinants of intentions to reuse medicines in the future. Methods Participants were recruited through an advert placed in the university's community newsletter reaching 15 000 households. Adults wishing to participate were interviewed using convenience sampling, with recruitment continuing until data saturation. Participants were interviewed face‐to‐face by two researchers using a semi‐structured interview schedule based on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB). Interview transcripts were analysed by thematic analysis, with the themes classified according to the TPB. The University's research ethics committee approval was obtained. Key findings Nineteen participants were interviewed. The potential economic and environmental benefits of medicines reuse were juxtaposed with stability and safety worries. Participants trusted pharmacists to quality‐assure returned medicines, but wondered if they had the time and storage space to dedicate to medicines reuse. Environmentalists were seen as the main proponents of medicines reuse with drug manufacturers, some taxpayers and parents seen as the main opponents. The physical characteristics of reused medicines, and quality assurance and logistics of reuse processes were seen to enable/obstruct engagement in medicines reuse. A working definition of medicines reuse as a behaviour was developed. Conclusions People could potentially agree to reuse medicines if their concerns are addressed and the process is well defined and managed. This is a qualitative study with a small number of participants meaning the results may not be generalisable. The themes generated will enable a structured questionnaire to be developed for quantifying broader views.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Alhamad
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, UK
| | - Nilesh Patel
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, UK
| | - Parastou Donyai
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, UK
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Van Brunt K, Pedersini R, Rooney J, Corrigan SM. Behaviours, thoughts and perceptions around mealtime insulin usage and wastage among people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross-sectional survey study. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2017; 126:30-42. [PMID: 28189952 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Revised: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS People with diabetes who use mealtime insulin (MTI) were surveyed about insulin wastage and injection habits when insufficient insulin remains in a disposable prefilled pen/cartridge to administer a full dose in a single injection. METHODS Cross-sectional, online, self-reported survey of MTI usage/wastage behaviour in 400 adults with type 1 (n=120) or type 2 (n=280) diabetes mellitus administering >20units/day of MTI via 100units/ml prefilled pens/cartridges for ⩾1month, conducted in France, Germany, Italy and UK. RESULTS Participants' mean±standard deviation age was 54.5±12.2years, body mass index was 29.9±7.2kg/m2 and duration of MTI therapy was 8.6±7.8years. They administered 3.7±5.9 injections/day with meals, using 11.3±18.0 prefilled pens/cartridges per month. Overall, 63.5% split the dose across two prefilled pens/cartridges (i.e. administered two injections to obtain a full dose), 15.0% used just what remained in their current pen (i.e. took a lower-than-prescribed dose) and 36.3% discarded prefilled pens/cartridges still containing insulin (i.e. took full dose with new pen). The latter participants discarded a mean 5.5±8.2 prefilled pens/cartridges monthly still containing insulin, each containing 8.6±8.7 units of insulin. Participants who wasted insulin considered it frustrating, time-consuming and painful to inject twice. CONCLUSIONS Patients taking >20units/day MTI can find transitions between insulin pens challenging. This study highlights the need to identify ways of improving transitions between pens to make transitions easier for insulin users, which could potentially improve adherence to prescribed doses and reduce waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Van Brunt
- Eli Lilly & Company Ltd, Erl Wood Manor, Sunninghill Road, Windlesham, Surrey GU20 6PH, UK.
| | - Riccardo Pedersini
- Kantar Health, The Kirkgate, 19-31 Church Street, Epsom, Surrey KT17 4PF, UK; RTI Health Solutions, Travessera de Gracia 56, Ático 1(a), 08006 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Jillian Rooney
- Kantar Health, 11 Madison Avenue 12th Floor, New York, NY 10010, USA.
| | - Sheila M Corrigan
- Eli Lilly & Company, Lilly Corporate Center, Indianapolis, IN 46285, USA.
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Disposal practices of unused and expired pharmaceuticals among general public in Kabul. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:45. [PMID: 28061902 PMCID: PMC5219664 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-3975-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most of the medicine users remain unaware about the disposal of unused or expired medicines. The aim of this study was to know the disposal practices of unused and expired medicines among the general public in Kabul. METHODS This was a descriptive, cross-sectional survey, conducted through face-to-face interviews using prevalidated structured questionnaire. Returned questionnaires were double-checked for accuracy. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23 was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS Total of 301 valid questionnaires were returned with a response rate of 100% in which 73.4% men and 26.6% women participated. More than half of the respondents were university graduates. Interestingly, 83.4% of the interviewees purchased medicines on the prescription of which 47.2% were university graduates, while 14.6% purchased medicine over the counter. Among the respondents, 46.5/100 purchased antibiotics and the remaining purchased NSAIDs, anti-hypertensive and anti-diabetic medicines. Significantly, 97/100 checked the expiry date of medicine before buying. Majority (95.3%) of the respondents' stored medicines at home. 77.7% of the respondents discarded the expired medicines in household trash. Majority of respondents held government responsible for creation of awareness for proper medicine disposal. Almost entire sample (98%) felt that improper disposal of unused and expired medicines can affect the environment and health. CONCLUSION Gaps exist in practices, therefore robust, safe and cost-effective pharmaceutical waste management program supported with media campaign is needed. Healthcare practitioners and community pharmacists should offer training to educate customers on standard medicine disposal practices.
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Paut Kusturica M, Tomas A, Sabo A. Disposal of Unused Drugs: Knowledge and Behavior Among People Around the World. REVIEWS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2017; 240:71-104. [PMID: 27115675 DOI: 10.1007/398_2016_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this systematic review was to determine the practice of medication disposal around the world and get insight into possible association between environmental awareness and people's behavior regarding this issue. A literature search (2005-2015) was performed to identify reports with quantitative data on disposal practices published in peer-reviewed literature. The most common method for disposal of unused medications in households is disposal in the garbage (Kuwait, United Kingdom, Lithuania, Qatar, Serbia, Ghana, Bangladesh, Malta and Saudi Arabia). The practice of flushing drugs into the sewage system still takes place in New Zealand, USA and Bangladesh. Only in Sweden and Germany, practice of returning drugs to pharmacy was practiced to a larger extent. The environmental impact of improper medication disposal is expected in countries with poorly functioning waste management schemes (Middle Eastern, Asian and African countries). Lack of the adequate information and clear instructions on proper manners of drug disposal was reported in many surveyed countries (USA, New Zealand, Bangladesh, Malta and Ireland). Clear and definite connection between knowledge about environmental detrimental effects of improper drug disposal and the preference towards disposal methods could not be established. Many respondents were generally concerned with issues of inadequate medicines discarding but the behavior regarding disposal of unused drugs often did not equate the awareness (Serbia, USA, Kuwait, Malta and UK). The current data emphasizes the global issue of improper medicine disposal, prevalent in environmentally-aware people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milica Paut Kusturica
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000, Novi Sad, Serbia.
| | - Ana Tomas
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Ana Sabo
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, Hajduk Veljkova 3, 21000, Novi Sad, Serbia
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Perales-Vela HV, García RV, Gómez-Juárez EA, Salcedo-Álvarez MO, Cañizares-Villanueva RO. Streptomycin affects the growth and photochemical activity of the alga Chlorella vulgaris. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2016; 132:311-317. [PMID: 27344399 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2016.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Antibiotics are increasingly being used in human and veterinary medicine, as well as pest control in agriculture. Recently, their emergence in the aquatic environment has become a global concern. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of streptomycin on growth and photosynthetic activity of Chlorella vulgaris after 72h exposure. We found that growth, photosynthetic activity and the content of the D1 protein of photosystem II decreased. Analysis of chlorophyll a fluorescence emission shows a reduction in the energy transfer between the antenna complex and reaction center. Also the activity of the oxygen evolution complex and electron flow between QA and QB were significantly reduced; in contrast, we found an increase in the reduction rate of the acceptor side of photosystem I. The foregoing can be attributed to the inhibition of the synthesis of the D1 protein and perhaps other coded chloroplast proteins that are part of the electron transport chain which are essential for the transformation of solar energy in the photosystems. We conclude that micromolar concentrations of streptomycin can affect growth and photosynthetic activity of Chlorella vulgaris. The accumulation of antibiotics in the environment can become an ecological problem for primary producers in the aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Virgilio Perales-Vela
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica, Unidad de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Los Reyes Iztacala, Ave. de los Barrios #1, Estado de México C.P. 54090, Mexico.
| | - Roberto Velasco García
- Laboratorio de Osmorregulación, Unidad de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Los Reyes Iztacala, Ave. de los Barrios #1, Estado de México C.P. 54090, Mexico
| | - Evelyn Alicia Gómez-Juárez
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica, Unidad de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Los Reyes Iztacala, Ave. de los Barrios #1, Estado de México C.P. 54090, Mexico
| | - Martha Ofelia Salcedo-Álvarez
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica, Unidad de Morfología y Función, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Los Reyes Iztacala, Ave. de los Barrios #1, Estado de México C.P. 54090, Mexico
| | - Rosa Olivia Cañizares-Villanueva
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de Microalgas, Departamento de Biotecnología y Bioingeniería, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ave. IPN 2508, San Pedro Zacatenco, C.P. 07360 México D.F, Mexico
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Chiffre A, Clérandeau C, Dwoinikoff C, Le Bihanic F, Budzinski H, Geret F, Cachot J. Psychotropic drugs in mixture alter swimming behaviour of Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) larvae above environmental concentrations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:4964-77. [PMID: 25175354 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3477-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Psychiatric pharmaceuticals, such as anxiolytics, sedatives, hypnotics and antidepressors, are among the most prescribed active substances in the world. The occurrence of these compounds in the environment, as well as the adverse effects they can have on non-target organisms, justifies the growing concern about these emerging environmental pollutants. This study aims to analyse the effects of six psychotropic drugs, valproate, cyamemazine, citalopram, sertraline, fluoxetine and oxazepam, on the survival and locomotion of Japanese medaka Oryzias latipes larvae. Newly hatched Japanese medaka were exposed to individual compounds for 72 h, at concentrations ranging from 10 μg L(-1) to 10 mg L(-1). Lethal concentrations 50 % (LC50) were estimated at 840, 841 and 9,136 μg L(-1) for fluoxetine, sertraline and citalopram, respectively, while other compounds did not induce any significant increase in mortality. Analysis of the swimming behaviour of larvae, including total distance moved, mobility and location, provided an estimated lowest observed effect concentration (LOEC) of 10 μg L(-1) for citalopram and oxazepam, 12.2 μg L(-1) for cyamemazine, 100 μg L(-1) for fluoxetine, 1,000 μg L(-1) for sertraline and >10,000 μg L(-1) for valproate. Realistic environmental mixture of the six psychotropic compounds induced disruption of larval locomotor behaviour at concentrations about 10- to 100-fold greater than environmental concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axelle Chiffre
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
- Chrono-Environment Department, UMR 6249 UFC/CNRS usc INRA, University of Franche Comté, Route de Gray, 25000, Besançon, France
| | - Christelle Clérandeau
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
| | - Charline Dwoinikoff
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
| | - Florane Le Bihanic
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
| | - Hélène Budzinski
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France
| | - Florence Geret
- Laboratoire GEODE, UMR CNRS 5602, Centre Universitaire Champollion, Place de Verdun, 81012, Albi Cedex 9, France
| | - Jérôme Cachot
- Laboratoire EPOC, UMR CNRS 5805, Université de Bordeaux, Avenue des Facultés, 33405, Talence Cedex, France.
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Antonio MU, Palacpac JB. Perceptions on the risk and management of unused pharmaceuticals toward the creation of guidelines on handling and disposal. Asian J Pharm Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2015.11.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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West LM, Diack L, Cordina M, Stewart D. A cross-sectional survey of the Maltese general public on medication wastage. Int J Clin Pharm 2016; 38:261-70. [DOI: 10.1007/s11096-015-0233-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Jacobs S, Sioen I, De Henauw S, Rosseel Y, Calis T, Tediosi A, Nadal M, Marques A, Verbeke W. Marine environmental contamination: public awareness, concern and perceived effectiveness in five European countries. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 143:4-10. [PMID: 26323787 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Given the potential of Perceived Consumer Effectiveness (PCE) in shaping pro-environmental behavior, the relationships between PCE, awareness of causes of contaminants in the marine environment, and concern about marine environmental contamination were investigated using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). PCE is the belief that an individual has in being able to make a difference when acting alone. A web-based survey was performed in one western European country (Belgium), one northern European country (Ireland) and three southern European countries (Italy, Portugal and Spain), resulting in a total sample size of 2824 participants. The analyses confirm that European citizens are concerned about marine environmental problems. Participants from the southern countries reported the highest concern. In addition, the study participants did not have a strong belief in themselves in being capable of making a difference in tackling marine environmental problems. However, a higher awareness, which was associated with a higher degree of concern, enhanced the belief that an individual can make a difference in tackling marine environmental problems, though only when a concrete action was proposed. Consequently, information campaigns focusing on pro-environmental behavior are recommended to raise public awareness about marine environmental problems and at the same time explicitly refer to concrete possible actions. The findings indicate that when only awareness and concern are raised without mentioning a concrete action, PCE might even decrease and render the communication effort ineffective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Jacobs
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Gent, Belgium; Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Gent, Belgium.
| | - Isabelle Sioen
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Stefaan De Henauw
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Yves Rosseel
- Department of Data Analysis, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 1, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Tanja Calis
- AquaTT, Unit 3, Olympic House, Pleasants Street, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | | | - Martí Nadal
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201 Reus, Catalonia, Spain
| | - António Marques
- Division of Aquaculture and Upgrading, Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere, I.P. (IPMA, I.P.), Avenida de Brasilia, 1449-006, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Wim Verbeke
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Gent, Belgium
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Voulvoulis N, Barceló D, Verlicchi P. Pharmaceutical Residues in Sewage Treatment Works and their Fate in the Receiving Environment. PHARMACEUTICALS IN THE ENVIRONMENT 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/9781782622345-00120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals are increasingly used in large amounts in human (and veterinary) medicine around the world. They reach the aquatic environment mainly through sewage treatment systems and can reach μg l−1 levels. The continual input of pharmaceuticals to the aquatic environment, via sewage, can also impart a persistent quality to compounds that otherwise possess no inherent environmental stability. While the literature contains increasing numbers of studies detailing fate, effects and behaviour in the environment, the subject is still not fully understood for all the different therapeutic classes. The toxicological significance for non-target (especially aquatic) organisms is poorly understood. The use/release of antibiotics and natural/synthetic steroids to the environment has generated most of the concern to date, but a plethora of other drugs are increasingly attracting attention, as their biological activity alone may support ecotoxicity assessments of those compounds with high production volumes (or toxicity), especially in view of the increasing importance of freshwater resources. Pharmaceuticals display a variety of removal efficiencies during wastewater treatment and their fate and behaviour are not determined by their physicochemical properties alone. Despite the fact that many drugs have high sorption potentials, partitioning to the solid phase was determined to be an unlikely removal pathway for the majority of compounds. The partitioning behaviour of these compounds both in sewage treatment and the aquatic environment is likely to be dictated by a number of physicochemical parameters. Findings also indicate that the costs of using tertiary treatment options (mainly based on drinking water treatment) to remove drugs from wastewater effluent are likely to be prohibitively expensive, and potentially undesirable, due sustainability implications. While adjusting existing treatment parameters may increase the removal efficiencies of pharmaceuticals, any changes to sewage treatment parameters would need to be offset against the economic and environmental costs. Likewise, any regulations on drug use must be balanced against health benefits. If receiving waters are used for potable supplies, the presence of these compounds may (although it is unlikely) represent a potential hazard to human health, especially in areas without advanced water treatment. The focus for future research should therefore be on proper and sufficient science for establishing the occurrence, exposure and effects of pharmaceuticals in the environment, so that sound decisions can be made regarding human and ecological health.
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Iron metallodrugs: stability, redox activity and toxicity against Artemia salina. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0121997. [PMID: 25849743 PMCID: PMC4388346 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0121997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron metallodrugs comprise mineral supplements, anti-hypertensive agents and, more recently, magnetic nanomaterials, with both therapeutic and diagnostic roles. As biologically-active metal compounds, concern has been raised regarding the impact of these compounds when emitted to the environment and associated ecotoxicological effects for the fauna. In this work we assessed the relative stability of several iron compounds (supplements based on glucoheptonate, dextran or glycinate, as well as 3,5,5-trimethylhexanoyl (TMH) derivatives of ferrocene) against high affinity models of biological binding, calcein and aprotransferrin, via a fluorimetric method. Also, the redox-activity of each compound was determined in a physiologically relevant medium. Toxicity toward Artemia salina at different developmental stages was measured, as well as the amount of lipid peroxidation. Our results show that polymer-coated iron metallodrugs are stable, non-redox-active and non-toxic at the concentrations studied (up to 300 µM). However, TMH derivatives of ferrocene were less stable and more redox-active than the parent compound, and TMH-ferrocene displayed toxicity and lipid peroxidation to A. salina, unlike the other compounds. Our results indicate that iron metallodrugs based on polymer coating do not present direct toxicity at low levels of emission; however other iron species (eg. metallocenes), may be deleterious for aquatic organisms. We suggest that ecotoxicity depends more on metal speciation than on the total amount of metal present in the metallodrugs. Future studies with discarded metallodrugs should consider the chemical speciation of the metal present in the composition of the drug.
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Inglezakis VJ, Moustakas K. Household hazardous waste management: a review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2015; 150:310-321. [PMID: 25528172 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2014.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/23/2014] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This paper deals with the waste stream of household hazardous waste (HHW) presenting existing management systems, legislation overview and other relevant quantitative and qualitative information. European Union legislation and international management schemes are summarized and presented in a concise manner by the use of diagrams in order to provide crucial information on HHW. Furthermore, sources and types, numerical figures about generation, collection and relevant management costs are within the scope of the present paper. The review shows that the term used to refer to hazardous waste generated in households is not clearly defined in legislation, while there is absence of specific acts regulating the management of HHW. The lack of obligation to segregate HHW from the household waste and the different terminology used makes it difficult to determine the quantities and composition of this waste stream, while its generation amount is relatively small and, therefore, is commonly overlooked in waste statistics. The paper aims to cover the gap in the related literature on a subject that is included within the crucial waste management challenges at world level, considering that HHW can also have impact on other waste streams by altering the redox conditions or causing direct reactions with other non hazardous waste substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vassilis J Inglezakis
- Nazarbayev University, School of Engineering, Chemical Engineering Department, 53 Kabanbay batyr ave., Astana, Kazakhstan.
| | - Konstantinos Moustakas
- National Technical University of Athens, School of Chemical Engineering, Unit of Environmental Science and Technology, 9, Heroon Polytechniou Street, Zographou Campus, 15773 Athens, Greece
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Gamarra JS, Godoi AFL, de Vasconcelos EC, de Souza KMT, de Oliveira CMR. Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) of diclofenac and ibuprofen: a public health perspective. CHEMOSPHERE 2015; 120:462-469. [PMID: 25243806 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2014.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2013] [Revised: 07/13/2014] [Accepted: 08/07/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been widely used in human and veterinary medicine, representing potential aquatic environmental contamination. This study aimed to perform an Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) of NSAIDs diclofenac (Dic) and ibuprofen (Ibu) in cities of the state of Paraná, Brazil, over the course of three years, by using available data from the Brazilian Public Health System. The environmental risk (ER) was assessed by employing the European Medicines Agency (EMeA) approach, and predicted environmental concentrations (PECs) were calculated. The refined PECs considered the drug metabolism and the excretion data, and also the sewage treatment plant removal rates of biological filters and activated sludge processes to define environmental scenarios. References to the predicted no effect concentration (PNEC) for these pharmaceuticals were considered, and the PEC/PNEC ratio was calculated; ratio values ⩾ 1 suggested an ER. Environmental risk was conducted on several cities, and the lack of an adequate sanitation system in the majority of Paraná cities forecasts a significant concern with the exposure to possible environmental damages in those cities. The high PEC/PNEC ratios in several cities showed that current usage patterns of these drugs constitute an environmental issue in need of resolution by health and environmental authorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Salvador Gamarra
- Graduate Program in Environmental Management, Universidade Positivo, 5300, Rua Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, Zip Code 81280-330, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil; Undergraduate Program in Pharmacy, Universidade Positivo, 5300, Rua Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, Zip Code 81280-330, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Ana Flávia Locateli Godoi
- Graduate Program in Environmental Management, Universidade Positivo, 5300, Rua Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, Zip Code 81280-330, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil; Undergraduate Program in Pharmacy, Universidade Positivo, 5300, Rua Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, Zip Code 81280-330, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Eliane Carvalho de Vasconcelos
- Graduate Program in Environmental Management, Universidade Positivo, 5300, Rua Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, Zip Code 81280-330, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil; Undergraduate Program in Pharmacy, Universidade Positivo, 5300, Rua Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, Zip Code 81280-330, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Kennedy Medeiros Tavares de Souza
- Undergraduate Program in Pharmacy, Universidade Positivo, 5300, Rua Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, Zip Code 81280-330, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Cintia Mara Ribas de Oliveira
- Graduate Program in Environmental Management, Universidade Positivo, 5300, Rua Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, Zip Code 81280-330, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil; Undergraduate Program in Pharmacy, Universidade Positivo, 5300, Rua Prof. Pedro Viriato Parigot de Souza, Zip Code 81280-330, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
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Pal A, He Y, Jekel M, Reinhard M, Gin KYH. Emerging contaminants of public health significance as water quality indicator compounds in the urban water cycle. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2014; 71:46-62. [PMID: 24972248 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2014.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Revised: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The contamination of the urban water cycle (UWC) with a wide array of emerging organic compounds (EOCs) increases with urbanization and population density. To produce drinking water from the UWC requires close examination of their sources, occurrence, pathways, and health effects and the efficacy of wastewater treatment and natural attenuation processes that may occur in surface water bodies and groundwater. This paper researches in details the structure of the UWC and investigates the routes by which the water cycle is increasingly contaminated with compounds generated from various anthropogenic activities. Along with a thorough survey of chemicals representing compound classes such as hormones, antibiotics, surfactants, endocrine disruptors, human and veterinary pharmaceuticals, X-ray contrast media, pesticides and metabolites, disinfection-by-products, algal toxins and taste-and-odor compounds, this paper provides a comprehensive and holistic review of the occurrence, fate, transport and potential health impact of the emerging organic contaminants of the UWC. This study also illustrates the widespread distribution of the emerging organic contaminants in the different aortas of the ecosystem and focuses on future research needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Pal
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, E1A 07-03, Singapore 117576, Singapore
| | - Yiliang He
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Martin Jekel
- Technical University of Berlin, Department of Water Quality Control, Strasse des 17. Juni, 10623 Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Reinhard
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, E1A 07-03, Singapore 117576, Singapore
| | - Karina Yew-Hoong Gin
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, E1A 07-03, Singapore 117576, Singapore; NUS Environmental Research Institute, National University of Singapore, 5A Engineering Drive 1, #02-01, Singapore 117411, Singapore
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A. Singleton J, M. Nissen L, Barter N, McIntosh M. The global public health issue of pharmaceutical waste: what role for pharmacists? JOURNAL OF GLOBAL RESPONSIBILITY 2014. [DOI: 10.1108/jgr-03-2014-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
– Pharmaceuticals have played an important role in improving the quality of life of the human population in modern times. However, it must also be acknowledged that both the production and use of pharmaceuticals have a significant, negative impact on the environment and consequently, a negative impact on the health of humans and wildlife. This negative impact is due to the embedded carbon in pharmaceuticals' manufacture and distribution and the waste generated in their manufacture, consumption and disposal. Pharmaceutical waste is comprised of contaminated waste (unwanted pharmaceuticals and their original containers) and non-contaminated waste (non-hazardous packaging waste). The paper aims to discuss these issues.
Design/methodology/approach
– The article is a literature review.
Findings
– The article identified a gap in the literature around pharmacist attitudes and behaviour toward the environmentally responsible handling of pharmaceutical waste.
Originality/value
– Pharmacists, with their professional commitment to the quality use of medicines and their active participation in the medicines management pathway, already play an important role in the more sustainable use of pharmaceuticals. Even so, they have the potential to play an even greater role with the environmentally responsible disposal of pharmaceutical waste (including packaging waste) and the education of other health professionals and the general public on this topic.
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Vellinga A, Cormican S, Driscoll J, Furey M, O'Sullivan M, Cormican M. Public practice regarding disposal of unused medicines in Ireland. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2014; 478:98-102. [PMID: 24530589 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.01.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Revised: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over recent years, a global increase in the use of pharmaceutical products has been observed. EU directives state that "Member states shall ensure that appropriate collection systems are in place for medicinal products that are unused or have expired" (Directive 2001/83/EC and Directive 2004/27/EC). OBJECTIVES There is no published data on how people in Ireland dispose of unused medicines; therefore the purpose of this study is to establish baseline information on storage and disposal of medicines. DESIGN Data was collected over two 2-week periods a year apart. People in the streets of Galway and Cork were approached randomly and invited to participate by filling out a questionnaire. RESULTS The questionnaire was completed by 398 individuals (207 in Galway and 191 in Cork). Unused medicines were kept in the home by 88% of the respondents. The most cited reason for keeping unused medicines was "in case they are needed later" (68%). Of the respondents who had disposed of medicine in the past, 72% had done so inappropriately. Environmentally inappropriate disposal methods were through general waste disposal and via the sewage system. Interestingly, of the people who had received advice on disposal practices from a healthcare professional, 75% disposed of their medicine appropriately. CONCLUSIONS There is little awareness among members of the public regarding appropriate ways to dispose of unused medicines. Our findings suggest that effective communication and established protocols will promote appropriate disposal practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akke Vellinga
- School of Medicine, National University of Galway, Ireland.
| | - Sarah Cormican
- School of Medicine, National University of Galway, Ireland
| | | | - Michelle Furey
- School of Medicine, National University of Galway, Ireland
| | - Mai O'Sullivan
- School of Medicine, National University of Galway, Ireland
| | - Martin Cormican
- School of Medicine, National University of Galway, Ireland; Department of Medical Microbiology, Galway University Hospitals, Galway, Ireland.
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Tran N, Drogui P, Zaviska F, Brar SK. Sonochemical degradation of the persistent pharmaceutical carbamazepine. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2013; 131:25-32. [PMID: 24140484 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2013.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/21/2013] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this work was to evaluate the potential of a sonochemical oxidation process for the degradation of carbamazepine (CBZ). Several factors, such as electrical power, treatment time, pH and initial concentration of CBZ were investigated. Using a 2(4) factorial matrix, the best performance for CBZ degradation (90.1% of removal) was obtained with an electrical power of 40 W, a treatment time of 120 min and an initial pH of 10.0 imposed in the presence of 6.0 mg L(-1) of CBZ. The treatment time and the calorimetric power were the most influential parameters on the degradation rate of CBZ. Subsequently, the optimal experimental parameters for CBZ degradation were investigated using central composite design. The sonochemical oxidation process, applied under optimal operating conditions (at an electrical power of 43 W for 116 min), oxidized 86 and 90% of the initial CBZ concentration of 5.62 mg L(-1) and 8.05 μg L(-1), respectively. During the sonochemical process, CBZ was primarily transformed into anthranilic acid and acridine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nam Tran
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS-Eau Terre et Environnement), Université du Québec, 490 rue de la Couronne, Québec, QC, Canada G1K 9A9
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Dohle S, Campbell VEA, Arvai JL. Consumer-perceived risks and choices about pharmaceuticals in the environment: a cross-sectional study. Environ Health 2013; 12:45. [PMID: 23734758 PMCID: PMC3680168 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-12-45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing concern that pollution from pharmaceuticals used in human medicine and agriculture can be a threat to the environment. Little is known, however, if people are aware that pharmaceuticals may have a detrimental influence on the environment. The present study examines people's risk perception and choices in regard to environmental risks of pharmaceuticals used in human medicine and for agricultural purposes. METHODS A representative sample of the U.S. population (N = 640) was surveyed. Respondents completed a hypothetical choice task that involved tradeoffs between human and environmental health. In addition, it was examined how much people would support an environment policy related to drug regulation. RESULTS For agricultural pharmaceuticals, respondents reported a high level of satisfaction for a policy requiring farms to limit their use of antibiotics. In the domain of pharmaceuticals used in human medicine, we found that people were willing to consider environmental consequences when choosing a drug, but only when choices were made about treatment options for a rather harmless disease. In contrast, when decisions were made about treatment options for a severe disease, the drug's effectiveness was the most important criterion. CONCLUSIONS It can be concluded that the environmental impact of a drug will be hardly considered in decisions about pharmaceuticals for severe diseases like cancer, and this may be due to the fact that these decisions are predominantly affective in nature. However, for less severe health risks, people are willing to balance health and environmental considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Dohle
- Institute for Environmental Decisions, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Victoria E A Campbell
- Department of Communication and Culture, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- Department of Geography, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Joseph L Arvai
- Department of Geography, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- Decision Research, Eugene, OR, USA
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