Publication:

Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practices of ecopharmacology among Indian medical undergraduates in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Goa

Background Improper disposal of unused and expired medications from households poses significant environmental concerns due to Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs). These persist in the environment and bioaccumulate, disrupting ecological balance through various mechanisms. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding ecopharmacology among MBBS students at Goa Medical College.

Methods A total of 270 participants were surveyed using a semi-structured questionnaire covering demographic information and KAP related to ecopharmacology. The collected data was transcribed into spreadsheets and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results Results indicate a satisfactory level of awareness among students, with the majority acknowledging the environmental implications of improper medication disposal, including pollution and antibiotic resistance. However, a significant gap was observed in awareness of guidelines for proper disposal. Despite positive attitudes towards raising awareness and implementing regulatory guidelines, many students reported engaging in improper disposal practices, such as throwing medications in household trash without segregation or flushing them down sinks or toilets. Proposed strategies for improvement include the establishment of pharmacy take-back programs and designated bins for pharmaceutical waste with waste collection systems.

Conclusions MBBS students at Goa Medical College have adequate knowledge and positive attitudes towards ecopharmacology; however, awareness of specific disposal guidelines is lacking. Integrating relevant content into the medical curriculum can help bridge this gap and promote eco-friendly healthcare practices among future physicians.