Medical waste: socioeconomic impact

The proper disposal and management of medical waste is a never-ending problem and one which is of grave concern to the general public. The amounts that are produced each day by hospitals and other small-generators are staggering, e.g., in the U.S. ca. 6000 tons per day. Approximately fifteen (15%) percent of this waste is considered infectious. This latter type of waste is usually incinerated or autoclaved (steam sterilization). In addition to the daily accumulation of solid waste, chemical wastes (liquids) and low-level radioactive wastes are generated. The proper disposal of all types of wastes is discussed as well as the overall cost and its impact on society.