Plastics in Medicine
Plastics have revolutionized the world of medicine and healthcare. From drug delivery systems, personal protection, or medical instruments, plastics have been used to enhance the safety, effectiveness, and outcomes in every facet of medicine. Their benefits in this critical application should also be weighed against potential negative environmental and health impacts.
Health Waste
Source: WHO, February 8th, 2018
Summary: This site explores the issue of medical waste in the healthcare industry. Medical waste encompasses everything from plastic disposable gloves to chemical waste. Contained within this website is a summary of the types of waste, health risks posed by waste, the environmental impact of medical waste, and mismanagement of medical waste in the current world.
Can Medical Care Exist Without Plastic
Source: National Geographic
Summary: This article discusses the prevalence of single-use plastics in the healthcare world and suggested alternatives to single-use plastics. The problem of recycling is discussed in the context of the lack of sorting within hospitals as well as the lack of incentive to recycle. Lastly, the author discusses the future of medical waste.
Banned Chemical Still Used in Hospital IVs is Linked to Attention Deficit Disorder
Source: The Washington Post, Amy Ellis Nutt, April 6th, 2016
Summary: This study discusses the effects that pediatric patients experienced when exposed to an additive to PVC called DEHP (a phthalate) during intensive care from IV tubing. The study was led by lead researching, Soren Verstraete in Belgium. The study was conducted on 449 children between 0 and 16 years old.