Factors Influencing Household Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal Practices in Nakuru City, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to assess factors that influence pharmaceutical waste disposal among households in Nakuru City. Pharmaceutical products play an essential role in promoting public health and enhancing the quality of life for many Kenyans. Nevertheless, they are considered waste once they expire, become contaminated, or can no longer be used for their intended purpose. A cross-sectional survey design was utilised in the study, with 384 households from Nakuru City participating. Information was obtained through structured questionnaires incorporating both open- and closed-ended questions, while descriptive statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS and Microsoft Excel. The findings revealed that 58.36 per cent had no knowledge of pharmaceutical waste handling. Of those who had knowledge, 40.31 per cent had advanced knowledge of risks associated with storing unwanted pharmaceuticals in the house, 25.20 per cent had moderate knowledge, 16.49 per cent had low knowledge, and 18.00 per cent had no knowledge. The study further established that 80 per cent of respondents had never received any information on how to dispose of unwanted pharmaceuticals. Disposal practices were influenced by distance to the medical facility, total family income, children under five years in the household, and medical cover ownership. There were statistically significant associations observed for knowledge on pharmaceutical waste, distance to the medical facility and family income, all of which indicated p < 0.05. In conclusion, lack of knowledge, limited information, and socio-economic and accessibility factors significantly influence pharmaceutical waste disposal among households in Nakuru City. The study recommends the establishment of public awareness and educational programs on pharmaceutical waste management among households, highlighting effects on human health and the environment if poorly disposed.