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Alryalat SA, Toubasi AA, Patnaik JL, Kahook MY. The impact of air pollution and climate change on eye health: a global review. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2024; 39:291-303. [PMID: 36579431 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2022-0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Climate change has important implications on human health, affecting almost every system in the body. Multiple studies have raised the possibility of climate change impacting eye health. In this review, we aimed to summarize current literature on the impact of air pollution and climate change on eye health. We performed a search in four different databases, including Medline, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Sciences databases. The search strategy combined terms regarding eye health and environmental/climate changes. The outcome of interest included all eye conditions. The search yielded 2,051 unique articles. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 61 articles were included in this systematic review with data covering 2,620,030 participants. Most studies originated from China, India, South Korea, and USA. Climate change adversely affected different eye conditions, with ocular surface diseases (e.g., conjunctivitis and dry eye) being most affected. Moreover, higher particulate matter (PM) was the most widely assessed pollutant and was adversely associated with the majority of eye conditions, increasing the burden on patients and healthcare providers. We found a low frequency of publications related to the delivery of eye care and its impact on climate change in countries with high air pollution and climate change burden.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennifer L Patnaik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Malik Y Kahook
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, Aurora, CO, USA
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Williams JTW, Bell KJL, Morton RL, Dieng M. Methods to Include Environmental Impacts in Health Economic Evaluations and Health Technology Assessments: A Scoping Review. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2024; 27:794-804. [PMID: 38462223 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2024.02.019] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The environmental impacts of healthcare are important factors that should be considered during health technology assessments. This study aims to summarize the evidence that exists about methods to include environmental impacts in health economic evaluations and health technology assessments. METHODS We identified records for screening using an existing scoping review and a systematic search of academic databases and gray literature up to September 2023. We screened the identified records for eligibility and extracted data using a narrative synthesis approach. The review was conducted following the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. RESULTS We identified 2898 records and assessed the full text of 114, of which 54 were included in this review. Ten methods were identified to include environmental impacts in health economic evaluations and health technology assessments. Methods included converting environmental impacts to dollars or disability-adjusted life years and including them in a cost-effectiveness, cost-utility, or cost-benefit analysis, calculating an incremental carbon footprint effectiveness ratio or incremental carbon footprint cost ratio, incorporating impacts as one criteria of a multi-criteria decision analysis, and freely considering impacts during health technology assessment deliberation processes. CONCLUSIONS Methods to include environmental impacts in health economic evaluations and health technology assessments exist but have not been tested for widespread use by health technology assessment agencies. Further research and implementation work is needed to determine which method can best aid decision makers to choose low environmental impact healthcare interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake T W Williams
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Katy J L Bell
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachael L Morton
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mbathio Dieng
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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3
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Malcolm J, Dodd A, Shaikh M, Cassels-Brown A, Buchan JC. Reducing the carbon footprint of cataract surgery: co-creating solutions with a departmental Delphi process. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:1349-1354. [PMID: 38155328 PMCID: PMC11076634 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-023-02902-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Climate change is arguably the greatest threat to global health of the 21st century. Although cataract surgery is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, recent literature review identified a paucity of evidence-based strategies for improving the environmental impact of cataract services. Our study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a departmental Delphi process for improving cataract services' environmental sustainability. METHODS All members of ophthalmology theatre teams in a UK teaching hospital were invited to participate in a three-stage Delphi process. Team members were surveyed for suggestions for reducing the department's environmental impact. Suggested interventions were refined during a plenary face-to-face discussion and ranked. The highest ranked interventions were combined into a mutually agreed action plan. Data on the economic and environmental cost of cataract services was collected prior to and six months after the Delphi process using the Eyefficiency mobile application. RESULTS Twenty-three interventions were suggested by a range of staff cadres. Interventions were ranked by 24 team members. The 2nd, 4th, 5th, 8th and 11th ranked interventions were combined into an "Eco-packs" project in collaboration with suppliers (Bausch + Lomb), saving 675 kg of waste and 350 kg of CO2 equivalent annually. CONCLUSIONS The Delphi process is an effective method for provoking departmental engagement with the sustainability agenda that we would encourage all ophthalmology departments to consider utilising. The baseline per case CO2 equivalent measured in our department was reproducible and could serve as a maximum benchmark to be improved upon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Malcolm
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK.
| | - Amy Dodd
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | - Mohammad Shaikh
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
| | | | - John C Buchan
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
- Royal College of Ophthalmologists' National Ophthalmology Database, 18 Stephenson Way, London, NW1 2HD, UK
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Birtel J, Hammer M, Feltgen N, Pauleikhoff L, Ong AY, Geerling G, Spitzer MS, Charbel Issa P. Intravitreal Injections: Improving Sustainability by Reducing Clinical Waste. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2024. [PMID: 38574679 DOI: 10.1055/a-2184-9492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravitreal injections are one of the most commonly performed ophthalmic procedures. It is estimated that over 1 million intravitreal injections are performed in Germany annually. The aim of this study was to quantify the waste and carbon footprint associated with single-use injection sets, and to establish a waste reduction strategy. MATERIAL AND METHODS The clinical waste and associated carbon footprint from standard disposable injection sets used by tertiary referral centres in Germany (n = 6) and the United Kingdom (n = 2) were assessed. The safety of performing intravitreal injections with a minimalistic material-sparing approach was evaluated. RESULTS The average weight of an injection set (and hence the waste generated from each injection) was 165 g. On average, each injection set comprised 145 g (88%) of plastic, 2.1 g (1.3%) of metal, 4.3 g (2.6%) of paper, and 12.9 g (7.8%) of gauze/swabs. The production of such injection sets was extrapolated to a CO2 equivalent of 752.6 tonnes (t), and the incineration of the resulting waste to a CO2 equivalent of 301.7 t. For 1 million injections, this equates to 145.2 t of plastic, 2.1 t of metal, 4.3 t of paper, and 12.9 t of gauze/swabs. A material-sparing approach can reduce injection set-associated waste by 99% without necessarily compromising patient safety. CONCLUSION A resource-saving approach to intravitreal injections can minimise the generation of clinical waste and its associated carbon footprint, thereby supporting sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Birtel
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikums Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Deutschland
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Deutschland
| | | | | | - Laurenz Pauleikhoff
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikums Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Ariel Yuhan Ong
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Gerd Geerling
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Deutschland
| | - Martin S Spitzer
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikums Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Peter Charbel Issa
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, University of Oxford Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Universitäts-Augenklinik, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München (TUM), München, Deutschland
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5
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Latham SG, Williams RL, Grover LM, Rauz S. Achieving net-zero in the dry eye disease care pathway. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:829-840. [PMID: 37957294 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-023-02814-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Climate change is a threat to human health and wellbeing across the world. In recent years, there has been a surge in awareness of this crisis, leading to many countries and organisations setting "net-zero" targets. This entails minimising carbon emissions and neutralising remaining emissions by removing carbon from the atmosphere. At the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27), commitments to transition away from fossil fuels and augment climate targets were underwhelming. It is therefore imperative for public and private sector organisations to demonstrate successful implementation of net-zero and set a precedent for the global political consensus. As a top 10 world employer, the United Kingdom National Health Service (NHS) has pledged to reach net-zero by 2045. The NHS has already taken positive steps forward, but its scale and complexity as a health system means stakeholders in each of its services must highlight the specifications for further progress. Dry eye disease is a chronic illness with an estimated global prevalence of 29.5% and an environmentally damaging care pathway. Moreover, environmental damage is a known aggravator of dry eye disease. Worldwide management of this illness generates copious amounts of non-recyclable waste, utilises inefficient supply chains and involves recurrent follow-up appointments and prescriptions. By mapping the dry eye disease care pathway to environmental impact, in this review we will highlight seven key areas in which reduced emissions and pollution could be targeted. Examining these approaches for improved environmental sustainability is critical in driving the transformation needed to preserve our health and wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel G Latham
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Richard L Williams
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Healthcare Technologies Institute, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Liam M Grover
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Healthcare Technologies Institute, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Saaeha Rauz
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK.
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de'Angelis N, Conso C, Bianchi G, Rodríguez AGB, Marchegiani F, Carra MC, Lafont C, Canouï-Poitrine F, Slim K, Pessaux P. Systematic review of carbon footprint of surgical procedures. J Visc Surg 2024; 161:7-14. [PMID: 38087700 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviscsurg.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The ecological sustainability of the operating room (OR) is a matter of recent interest. The present systematic review aimed to review the current literature assessing the carbon footprint of surgical procedures in different surgical fields. Following to the PRISMA statement checklist, three databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library) were searched by independent reviewers, who screened records on title and abstract first, and then on the full text. Risk of bias was evaluated using the MINORS system. Over the 878 articles initially identified, 36 original studies were included. They considered ophthalmologic surgical procedures (30.5%), general/digestive surgery (19.4%), gynecologic procedures (13.9%), orthopedic procedures (8.3%), neurosurgery (5.5%), otolaryngology/head and neck surgery (5.5%), plastic/dermatological surgery (5.5%), and cardiac surgery (2.8%). Despite a great methodological heterogeneity, data showed that a single surgical procedure emits 4-814 kgCO2e, with anesthetic gases and energy consumption representing the largest sources of greenhouse gas emission. Minimally invasive surgical techniques may require more resources than conventional open surgery, particularly for packaging and plastics, energy use, and waste production. Each OR has the potential to produce from 0.2 to 4kg of waste per case with substantial differences depending on the type of intervention, hospital setting, and geographic area. Overall, the selected studies were found to be of moderate quality. Based on a qualitative synthesis of the available literature, the OR can be targeted by programs and protocols implemented to reduce the carbon footprint and improve the waste stream of the OR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola de'Angelis
- DIGEST department, unit of colorectal and digestive surgery, faculty of medicine, Beaujon university hospital, university of Paris Cité, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Christel Conso
- Service de chirurgie orthopedique, Institut Mutualiste Montsouris, 42, boulevard Jourdan, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Giorgio Bianchi
- DIGEST department, unit of colorectal and digestive surgery, faculty of medicine, Beaujon university hospital, university of Paris Cité, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Ana Gabriela Barría Rodríguez
- DIGEST department, unit of colorectal and digestive surgery, faculty of medicine, Beaujon university hospital, university of Paris Cité, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Francesco Marchegiani
- DIGEST department, unit of colorectal and digestive surgery, faculty of medicine, Beaujon university hospital, university of Paris Cité, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Maria Clotilde Carra
- Service of odontology, department of periodontology, Rothschild hospital, U.F.R. of odontology-Garancière, université de Paris, AP-HP, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Charlotte Lafont
- Service de santé publique, hôpital Henri-Mondor, 94010 Créteil cedex, France; IMRB, Inserm U955, équipe Clinical Epidemiology And Ageing (CEpiA), université Paris Est Créteil (UPEC), France
| | - Florence Canouï-Poitrine
- Service de santé publique, hôpital Henri-Mondor, 94010 Créteil cedex, France; IMRB, Inserm U955, équipe Clinical Epidemiology And Ageing (CEpiA), université Paris Est Créteil (UPEC), France
| | - Karem Slim
- Department of digestive surgery, Francophone Group for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (GRACE), university hospital, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, place Lucie-Aubrac, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Patrick Pessaux
- Digestive surgery department, HPB unit, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, university of Strasbourg, 1, place de l'Hôpital, 67091 Strasbourg, France.
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Slim K, Martin F. Surgery, innovation, research and sustainable development. J Visc Surg 2024; 161:63-68. [PMID: 38071141 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviscsurg.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
In the healthcare sector, surgery (especially in the operating theatre) is responsible for emission of greenhouse gases, which is a source of global warming. The goal of this largely quantitative assessment is to address three questions on carbon footprint associated with surgery, the role of primary and secondary prevention prior to surgical procedures, and incorporation of the carbon footprint into judgment criteria in research and surgical innovations. It appears that while the impact of surgery on global warming is undeniable, its extent depends on means of treatment and geographical location. Before and after an operation, primary, secondary and tertiary prevention accompanied by surgical sobriety (avoiding unnecessary or unjustified actions) can be virtuous in terms of sustainable development. However, the sanitary benefits of these actions are often opposed to environmental benefit, which has yet to be satisfactorily assessed. Lastly, the carbon footprint has yet to be incorporated into research protocols or the innovations under development. This should impel us not only to sensitize the different healthcare actors to relevant issues, but also to improve working conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karem Slim
- Digestive Surgery Department, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France; Collectif d'Eco-Responsabilité En Santé (CERES), Beaumont, France.
| | - Frédéric Martin
- Private Hospitals of Versailles - Ramsay Santé, Versailles, France
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8
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Lam L, Bradbrook D, Gale J. Tracing the barriers to decarbonising ophthalmology: A review. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2024; 52:78-90. [PMID: 38213078 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.14349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
As climate change demands increasingly urgent mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, the health sector needs to do its part to decarbonise. Ophthalmologists share concerns about climate change and seek opportunities to reduce their environmental impact. When measuring the footprint of ophthalmology, major contributions are from patient travel to clinics, and from the large amounts of single-use disposable materials that are consumed during surgeries and sterile procedures. Ophthalmic services in India have already demonstrated systems that consume far fewer of these products through efficient throughput of patients and the safe reuse of many items, while maintaining equivalent safety and quality outcomes. Choosing these low-cost low-emission options would seem obvious, but many ophthalmologists experience barriers that prevent them operating as Indian surgeons do. Understanding these barriers to change is a crucial step in the decarbonisation of ophthalmology and the health sector more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Lam
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Darren Bradbrook
- Surgery and Perioperative Medicine Division, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
- Southern Adelaide Local Health Network (SALHN), Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jesse Gale
- Department of Surgery & Anaesthesia, University of Otago Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
- Ophthalmology, Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand Capital Coast & Hutt Valley, Wellington, New Zealand
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Lever M, Smetana N, Bechrakis NE, Foerster A. [Survey and reduction of waste production from eye surgery]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2023; 120:932-939. [PMID: 37052707 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-023-01840-6] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The health sector is facing new challenges due to the impact of climate change on health. At the same time, it significantly contributes to our society's climate footprint. Hospitals producing considerable amounts of waste are an important aspect of this burden. The aim of this work was to quantify the amount of waste produced by eye surgery and, as an optimization measure, to evaluate the effect of glass separation from residual waste. MATERIAL AND METHODS Over a 2-week period, the waste generated by eye operations in the surgical theater of our university hospital was measured. Another 2‑week long measurement was conducted after the initiation of glass separation from general waste. The data obtained allowed a comparison of the two periods, the type of waste (residual and recyclable) as well as the type of operation (intraocular, extraocular). Considering regional waste disposal costs, an economic comparison was also performed. RESULTS In the first measurement period (196 operations), a total of 549.6 kg of waste was generated, 87% (478.3 kg) of which was residual waste, corresponding to 14.3 tons of total waste annually. Intraocular procedures generated on average 80% more waste than extraocular procedures: 18.1 ± 3.9 kg and 11.4 ± 4.0 kg, respectively, per day and theater. Separation of glass from residual waste reduced its quantity by 7.2% in the second measurement period (197 procedures). As the disposal of glass is free of charge in the city of Essen, this resulted in a small economic advantage (extrapolated to 112 € per year). CONCLUSION The amount of waste generated by ophthalmic surgery is substantial, with a predominant proportion of non-recyclable residual waste. Intraocular operations are the cause of the majority of the waste produced. Simple measures, such as disposing of glass separately, are helpful and inexpensive to reduce the quantity of residual waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mael Lever
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Deutschland.
| | - Nicolai Smetana
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Deutschland
| | - Nikolaos E Bechrakis
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Deutschland
| | - Andreas Foerster
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Deutschland
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Taboun OS, Orr SMA, Pereira A, Choudhry N. Factors contributing to the carbon footprint of cataract surgery. J Cataract Refract Surg 2023; 49:759-763. [PMID: 37390323 DOI: 10.1097/j.jcrs.0000000000001204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
The healthcare sector is a significant greenhouse gas emitter. Cataract surgery is a procedure that results in a large amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. We sought to review the literature for factors contributing to the carbon footprint of this procedure. The literature, although limited, varies greatly by region. The carbon footprint of cataract surgery ranged from approximately 6 kg CO2 equivalents in a center in India to 181.9 kg CO2 equivalents in a center in the United Kingdom. Factors contributing to the carbon footprint of cataract surgery included the procurement of materials, energy use, and the emissions associated with travel. Factors facilitating a lower carbon footprint include the reuse of surgical materials and more efficient autoclave settings. Potential areas for improvement to consider include the reduction in packaging material, the reuse of materials, and potentially reducing travel emissions by performing simultaneous bilateral cataract surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Salem Taboun
- From the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada (Taboun); Vitreous Retina Macula Specialists of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Orr, Choudhry); Octane Imaging Lab, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Orr, Pereira, Choudhry); Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada (Pereira, Choudhry)
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Sherry B, Lee S, Ramos Cadena MDLA, Laynor G, Patel SR, Simon MD, Romanowski EG, Hochman SE, Schuman JS, Prescott C, Thiel CL. How Ophthalmologists Can Decarbonize Eye Care: A Review of Existing Sustainability Strategies and Steps Ophthalmologists Can Take. Ophthalmology 2023; 130:702-714. [PMID: 36889466 PMCID: PMC10293062 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2023.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
TOPIC Understanding approaches to sustainability in cataract surgery and their risks and benefits. CLINICAL RELEVANCE In the United States, health care is responsible for approximately 8.5% of greenhouse gas (GHG), and cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures. Ophthalmologists can contribute to reducing GHG emissions, which lead to a steadily increasing list of health concerns ranging from trauma to food instability. METHODS We conducted a literature review to identify the benefits and risks of sustainability interventions. We then organized these interventions into a decision tree for use by individual surgeons. RESULTS Identified sustainability interventions fall into the domains of advocacy and education, pharmaceuticals, process, and supplies and waste. Existing literature shows certain interventions may be safe, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. These include dispensing medications at home to patients after surgery, multi-dosing appropriate medications, training staff to properly sort medical waste, reducing the number of supplies used during surgery, and implementing immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery where clinically appropriate. The literature was lacking on the benefits or risks for some interventions, such as switching specific single-use supplies to reusables or implementing a hub-and-spoke-style operating room setup. Many of the advocacy and education interventions have inadequate literature specific to ophthalmology but are likely to have minimal risks. CONCLUSIONS Ophthalmologists can engage in a variety of safe and effective approaches to reduce or eliminate dangerous GHG emissions associated with cataract surgery. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Sherry
- NYU Langone Health, NYU Langone Hospitals, New York, New York
| | - Samuel Lee
- NYU Langone Health, NYU Langone Hospitals, New York, New York
| | | | - Gregory Laynor
- NYU Langone Health, NYU Langone Hospitals, New York, New York
| | - Sheel R Patel
- NYU Langone Health, NYU Langone Hospitals, New York, New York
| | | | - Eric G Romanowski
- Research Director of The Charles T. Campbell Ophthalmic Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sarah E Hochman
- NYU Langone Health, NYU Langone Hospitals, New York, New York; Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Joel S Schuman
- NYU Langone Health, NYU Langone Hospitals, New York, New York; Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York University, New York, New York; Center for Neural Science, College of Arts and Science, New York University, New York, New York; Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Electrical & Computer Engineering, Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, New York, New York; Neuroscience Institute, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Christina Prescott
- NYU Langone Health, NYU Langone Hospitals, New York, New York; Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Cassandra L Thiel
- NYU Langone Health, NYU Langone Hospitals, New York, New York; Department of Ophthalmology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York University, New York, New York.
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Guirado-Fuentes C, Abt-Sacks A, Trujillo-Martín MDM, García-Pérez L, Rodríguez-Rodríguez L, Carrion i Ribas C, Serrano-Aguilar P. Main Challenges of Incorporating Environmental Impacts in the Economic Evaluation of Health Technology Assessment: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4949. [PMID: 36981859 PMCID: PMC10049058 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Health technology assessment (HTA) provides evidence-based information on healthcare technology to support decision making in many countries. Environmental impact is a relevant dimension of a health technology's value, but it has been poorly addressed in HTA processes in spite of the commitment that the health sector must have to contribute to mitigating the effects of climate change. This study aims to identify the state of the art and challenges for quantifying environmental impacts that could be incorporated into the economic evaluation (EE) of HTA. We performed a scoping review that included 22 articles grouped into four types of contribution: (1) concepts to draw up a theoretical framework, (2) HTA reports, (3) parameter designs or suitable indicators, and (4) economic or budgetary impact assessments. This review shows that evaluation of the environmental impact of HTAs is still very incipient. Small steps are being taken in EE, such as carbon footprint estimations from a life-cycle approach of technologies and the entire care pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Guirado-Fuentes
- Canary Islands Health Research Institute Foundation (FIISC), 38320 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Research Network on Health Services for Chronic Conditions (REDISSEC), Carlos III Health Institute, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), 38109 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Analía Abt-Sacks
- Canary Islands Health Research Institute Foundation (FIISC), 38320 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), 38109 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - María del Mar Trujillo-Martín
- Canary Islands Health Research Institute Foundation (FIISC), 38320 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Research Network on Health Services for Chronic Conditions (REDISSEC), Carlos III Health Institute, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), 38109 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies (ITB), University of La Laguna, 38200 San Cristobal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Lidia García-Pérez
- Canary Islands Health Research Institute Foundation (FIISC), 38320 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Research Network on Health Services for Chronic Conditions (REDISSEC), Carlos III Health Institute, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), 38109 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies (ITB), University of La Laguna, 38200 San Cristobal de La Laguna, Spain
| | | | - Carme Carrion i Ribas
- Research Network on Health Services for Chronic Conditions (REDISSEC), Carlos III Health Institute, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), 38109 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- eHealth Lab Research Group, School of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro Serrano-Aguilar
- Research Network on Health Services for Chronic Conditions (REDISSEC), Carlos III Health Institute, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), 38109 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Institute of Biomedical Technologies (ITB), University of La Laguna, 38200 San Cristobal de La Laguna, Spain
- Evaluation Unit (SESCS), Canary Islands Health Service (SCS), 38109 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
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13
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Hong Z, Chong EW, Chan HHL. One step forward to sustainability: The carbon footprint of cataract surgery in Australia. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2023; 51:180-182. [PMID: 36478628 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.14193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Hong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elaine W Chong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Eye Research Australia, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen H L Chan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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14
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Di Simplicio S, Fowler S, Burt S, Hogg HDJ. Cross-sector collaboration for carbon reduction and offsetting in cataract surgery. Br J Surg 2023; 110:506-507. [PMID: 36772812 DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znad024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Di Simplicio
- Newcastle Eye Centre, Newcastle Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | | | - H D Jeffry Hogg
- Newcastle Eye Centre, Newcastle Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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15
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[Position Paper and Recommendations for Action for Ecologically Sustainable Ophthalmology - Statement of the German Society of Ophthalmology (DOG) and the German Professional Association of Ophthalmologists (BVA)]. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2023; 240:198-217. [PMID: 36812927 DOI: 10.1055/a-2015-1562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
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16
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Thiel CL, Sreedhar P, Silva GS, Greene HC, Seetharaman M, Durr M, Roberts T, Vedanthan R, Lee PH, Andrade G, El-Shahawy O, Hochman SE. Conservation Practices for Personal Protective Equipment: A Systematic Review with Focus on Lower-Income Countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2575. [PMID: 36767940 PMCID: PMC9915410 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
During the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) necessitated unprecedented and non-validated approaches to conserve PPE at healthcare facilities, especially in high income countries where single-use disposable PPE was ubiquitous. Our team conducted a systematic literature review to evaluate historic approaches for conserving single-use PPE, expecting that lower-income countries or developing contexts may already be uniquely conserving PPE. However, of the 50 included studies, only 3 originated from middle-income countries and none originated from low-income countries. Data from the included studies suggest PPE remained effective with extended use and with multiple or repeated use in clinical settings, as long as donning and doffing were performed in a standard manner. Multiple decontamination techniques were effective in disinfecting single use PPE for repeated use. These findings can inform healthcare facilities and providers in establishing protocols for safe conservation of PPE supplies and updating existing protocols to improve sustainability and overall resilience. Future studies should evaluate conservation practices in low-resource settings during non-pandemic times to develop strategies for more sustainable and resilient healthcare worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra L. Thiel
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | | | - Genevieve S. Silva
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Hannah C. Greene
- Social Science Division, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 129188, United Arab Emirates
| | - Meenakshi Seetharaman
- College of Literature, Science, and Arts, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Meghan Durr
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Timothy Roberts
- Health Sciences Library, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Rajesh Vedanthan
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Paul H. Lee
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Gizely Andrade
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Omar El-Shahawy
- Department of Population Health, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Sarah E. Hochman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
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17
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[Position paper and recommendations for action for ecologically sustainable ophthalmology : Statement of the German Society of Ophthalmology (DOG) and the German Professional Association of Ophthalmologists (BVA)]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2023; 120:52-68. [PMID: 36625883 PMCID: PMC9838365 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-022-01792-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
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18
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Cunha MF, Pellino G. Environmental effects of surgical procedures and strategies for sustainable surgery. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 20:399-410. [PMID: 36481812 PMCID: PMC9735025 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-022-00716-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
There is a bidirectional relationship between climate change and health care. Climate change threatens public health, and health care contributes to climate change. For example, surgery is the most energy-intensive practice in the health-care sector, and gastrointestinal conditions are responsible for a substantial environmental burden. However, environmental costs associated with health care are often overlooked. This issue has been examined more closely in current times. Emerging data are mainly focused on surgery, as the most resource-intensive practice. However, there is still a lack of global awareness and guidance on sustainable surgical practices. This Perspective aims to reassess the evidence on health care and surgery carbon footprints, focusing on gastrointestinal conditions, identify issues that need to be addressed to achieve a more sustainable practice and develop perspectives for future surgical procedures. The proposed framework to mitigate the environmental effects of surgery could be translated to other health-care sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel F. Cunha
- grid.7157.40000 0000 9693 350XColorectal Surgery group - General Surgery Department, Algarve University Centre, Portimão, Portugal ,Algarve Biomedical Centre, Portimão, Portugal
| | - Gianluca Pellino
- grid.9841.40000 0001 2200 8888Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, Universitá degli Studi della Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Naples, Italy ,grid.411083.f0000 0001 0675 8654Colorectal Surgery, Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
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19
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Drew J, Christie SD, Rainham D, Rizan C. HealthcareLCA: an open-access living database of health-care environmental impact assessments. Lancet Planet Health 2022; 6:e1000-e1012. [PMID: 36495883 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(22)00257-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic environmental change negatively effects human health and is increasing health-care system demand. Paradoxically, the provision of health care, which itself is a substantial contributor to environmental degradation, is compounding this problem. There is increasing willingness to transition towards sustainable health-care systems globally and ensuring that strategy and action are informed by best available evidence is imperative. In this Personal View, we present an interactive, open-access database designed to support this effort. Functioning as a living repository of environmental impact assessments within health care, the HealthcareLCA database collates 152 studies, predominantly peer-reviewed journal articles, into one centralised and publicly accessible location, providing impact estimates (currently totalling 3671 numerical values) across 1288 health-care products and processes. The database brings together research generated over the past two decades and indicates exponential field growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Drew
- Department of Surgery (Neurosurgery), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| | - Sean D Christie
- Department of Surgery (Neurosurgery), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Daniel Rainham
- School of Health and Human Performance and the Healthy Populations Institute, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Chantelle Rizan
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK; Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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20
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Thiel CL, Zhang J, Chang DF. Differences in reuse of cataract surgical supplies and pharmaceuticals based on type of surgical facility. J Cataract Refract Surg 2022; 48:1092-1094. [PMID: 35383659 DOI: 10.1097/j.jcrs.0000000000000951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra L Thiel
- From the Departments of Population Health and Ophthalmology, NYU Langone Health, New York City, New York (Thiel); Merck Research Laboratories, Merck & Co., Inc., MRL BARDS, Rahway, New Jersey (Zhang); Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California (Chang)
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21
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Buchan JC, Thiel CL, Steyn A, Somner J, Venkatesh R, Burton MJ, Ramke J. Addressing the environmental sustainability of eye health-care delivery: a scoping review. Lancet Planet Health 2022; 6:e524-e534. [PMID: 35709809 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(22)00074-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The demand for eye care-the most common medical speciality in some countries-is increasing globally due to both demographic change and the development of eye health-care services in low-income and middle-income countries. This expansion of service provision needs to be environmentally sustainable. We conducted a scoping review to establish the nature and extent of the literature describing the environmental costs of delivering eye-care services, identify interventions to diminish the environmental impact of eye care, and identify key sustainability themes that are not yet being addressed. We identified 16 peer-reviewed articles for analysis, all published since 2009. Despite a paucity of research evidence, there is a need for the measurement of environmental impacts associated with eye care to be standardised along with the methodological tools to assess these impacts. The vastly different environmental costs of delivering clinical services with similar clinical outcomes in different regulatory settings is striking; in one example, a phacoemulsification cataract extraction in a UK hospital produced more than 20 times the greenhouse gas emission of the same procedure in an Indian hospital. The environmental costs must be systematically included when evaluating the risks and benefits of new interventions or policies aimed at promoting safety in high-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Buchan
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Cassandra L Thiel
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Annalien Steyn
- Department of Opthalmology, Groote Schuur Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - John Somner
- Department of Opthalmology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Matthew J Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Jacqueline Ramke
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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22
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Potential reduction in healthcare carbon footprint by autonomous artificial intelligence. NPJ Digit Med 2022; 5:62. [PMID: 35551275 PMCID: PMC9098499 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-022-00605-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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23
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Birtel J, Heimann H, Hoerauf H, Helbig H, Schulz C, Holz FG, Geerling G. [Sustainability in ophthalmology : Adaptation to the climate crisis and mitigation]. Ophthalmologe 2022; 119:567-576. [PMID: 35451609 PMCID: PMC9024069 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-022-01608-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Die Klimakrise bedroht die Gesundheit heutiger und künftiger Generationen und stellt das Gesundheitssystem vor besondere Herausforderungen. Zur Anpassung an den anthropogene Klimawandel sind umfängliche Adaptationsstrategien und eine Mitigation des Klimawandels notwendig. In der Medizin sowie in der Augenheilkunde gibt es vielfältige Möglichkeiten zur Reduktion des CO2(Kohlendioxid)-Fußabdrucks, die es zu ergreifen gilt, die ordnungspolitisch gefördert und eingefordert werden sollten. Das aufkommende Feld der datengesteuerten Nachhaltigkeit kann Werkzeuge liefern, um den ökologischen Fußabdruck der eigenen Tätigkeit zu evaluieren sowie Optimierungen zu initiieren. Lebenszyklusanalysen können Instrumente für systematische Ökobilanzen sein und nachhaltige Produkt- und Praxisentscheidungen ermöglichen. Das deutsche Gesundheitssystem sollte eine quantifizierbare und holistische Strategie zur CO2-Reduktion entwickeln; Nachhaltigkeit könnte zukünftig ein Leistungsindikator sein. Dieser Artikel diskutiert mit augenärztlicher Perspektive Beispiele zur Adaptation an die Klimakrise und zur Mitigation; dies schließt kleine Maßnahmen, die jeder Einzelne umsetzen kann, als auch größere, strukturelle Ansätze ein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Birtel
- Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, Großbritannien.
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, Großbritannien.
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland.
| | - Heinrich Heimann
- St. Paul's Eye Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospitals Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Großbritannien
| | - Hans Hoerauf
- Augenklinik der Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Horst Helbig
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Regensburg, Regensburg, Deutschland
| | - Christian Schulz
- Deutsche Allianz Klimawandel und Gesundheit, Berlin, Deutschland
- Klinik für Anästhesiologie und Intensivmedizin, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - Frank G Holz
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Bonn, Deutschland
| | - Gerd Geerling
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
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24
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Skinner JR. Doctors and climate change: First do no harm. J Paediatr Child Health 2021; 57:1754-1758. [PMID: 34792236 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.15658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Imagine a herd of cows in a fenced, lush green meadow shared with birds, bees and other small animals. Now imagine that everything the cows eat or drink comes in a plastic container. Humanity is on an appalling trajectory. Most of us are now aware that a crisis is upon us. If you are like me, you are struggling to consider what you should do about it. Those who read this journal are for the most part child health professionals; it is our job to look after children. This job must surely include caring for their future. Yet we, like most of the rest of human society, are actively supporting behaviours which will deprive children of their future, and potentially the future of much of the animal kingdom along with them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan R Skinner
- Heart Centre for Children, Sydney Children's Hospital Network, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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25
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Wong YL, Noor M, James KL, Aslam TM. Ophthalmology Going Greener: A Narrative Review. Ophthalmol Ther 2021; 10:845-857. [PMID: 34633635 PMCID: PMC8502635 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-021-00404-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The combined effects of fossil fuel combustion, mass agricultural production and deforestation, industrialisation and the evolution of modern transport systems have resulted in high levels of carbon emissions and accumulation of greenhouse gases, causing profound climate change and ozone layer depletion. The consequential depletion of Earth's natural ecosystems and biodiversity is not only a devastating loss but a threat to human health. Sustainability-the ability to continue activities indefinitely-underpins the principal solutions to these problems. Globally, the healthcare sector is a major contributor to carbon emissions, with waste production and transport systems being amongst the highest contributing factors. The aim of this review is to explore modalities by which the healthcare sector, particularly ophthalmology, can reduce carbon emissions, related costs and overall environmental impact, whilst maintaining a high standard of patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yee Ling Wong
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.
| | - Maha Noor
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Katherine L James
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Tariq M Aslam
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.,School of Pharmacy and Optometry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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