🌱 Educating the Next Generation on Pharmaceutical Pollution 🌏
In a world where our healthcare system is constantly evolving and advancing, our future leaders must understand the environmental impact of our actions. Pharmaceuticals have undoubtedly improved our lives, but they also pose a significant threat to our ecosystems when disposed of improperly.
Here are a few key takeaways from our workshop:
1) Definition of pharmaceutical waste: Expired, contaminated, or unused medications, drugs, vaccines, and medical products from healthcare, households, and manufacturing.
2) Impact towards humans:
a) Toxicity to health: Individuals who encounter contaminated resources may have an adverse effect on their health. Long-term exposure to lower concentrations of complex pharmaceutical mixtures may result in acute and chronic damage, tissue accumulation, reproductive damage, and inhibition of cell proliferation.
b)Accumulative Effects: Over time, cumulative exposure to pharmaceutical waste can lead to health complications
c)Accidental Consumption: Expired or discarded medications can be inadvertently consumed, leading to incorrect dosages or unintended side effects.
3) The solution for this problem: ECO-SMART DISPOSAL
a) Proper Disposal: Encourage everyone to dispose of unused or expired medications at designated collection sites or through drug take-back programs to prevent them from entering our waterways.
b) Responsible Purchasing: When buying over-the-counter medications, choose products with minimal packaging, reducing unnecessary waste. Opt for eco-friendly packaging where possible.
c)Support Eco-friendly Brands: Encourage and support pharmaceutical companies that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
d)Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the environmental impact of pharmaceuticals and share this knowledge with friends and family. Knowledge is a powerful tool for change.
e) Reduce Prescription Waste: Only take the prescribed amount of medication, and consult with healthcare professionals to reduce over-prescribing and minimize the need for disposal.
Thank you ChM. DR. MUGGUNDHA RAOOV for conducting the program for the school students to have a better understanding of pharmaceutical pollution. Last but not least, thank you to Prof Sharifah, Ts. ChM. Dr. Kumuthini Chandrasekaram & and Kavirajaa Pandian Sambasevam for giving a wonderful presentation to the students.
By taking these steps, we can collectively make a significant impact on reducing pharmaceutical pollution and safeguarding our environment for future generations. Let's all be part of the solution! 🌏💪
#PharmaceuticalPollution #Sustainability #EnvironmentalResponsibility #ActionForChange
Director @ Merck | Biologics PR&D
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