Abstract:
Medical waste includes materials used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of diseases in humans or animals, encompassing pharmaceutical waste such as unused or expired medicines. Poor segregation practices can cause hazardous and non-hazardous wastes to mix, increasing health and environmental risks.
Objective
To assess the medical solid waste generation rate, composition, and management practices in health facilities within Gullele Subcity, District 10, Addis Ababa.
Methods
A survey research design was used to evaluate waste practices in two health centers and four medium clinics, selected based on specialization, capacity, and ownership. Data were collected over four rounds using observational checklists and weighing scales. Participants were selected using probability sampling. Quantitative data were entered into Excel and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics—including frequencies, percentages, graphs, and charts—were used to summarize findings.
Results
All 89 selected participants responded (100% response rate). A majority (83.1%) confirmed segregation of waste at the point of generation. About 85.4% reported the availability of waste collection points, and 93.3% confirmed timely waste collection. Nearly all (97.8%) indicated the presence of a recycling program. Bivariate logistic regression showed associations between waste segregation and factors such as sex and education, though these were not statistically significant in multivariable analysis (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Medical waste management practices in the study area were largely effective, with high compliance in segregation, storage, and recycling. Continued training and monitoring are recommended to sustain and improve current practices
