2SPD-001 Environmental impact management of inhalers from the hospital pharmacy: the GIMAFH project
Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background and Importance The healthcare system significantly contributes to global warming, with inhalers being a notable example due to their hydrofluoroalkane content, which has a greenhouse effect 1,000–3,500 times greater than CO2. Proper use and disposal of these medications are crucial from both healthcare and environmental perspectives. Increasing patient awareness and promoting sustainable management of inhalers is essential. Aim and Objectives The GIMAFH project aims to minimise the environmental impact of inhalers through hospital pharmacy initiatives. The specific objectives are: (1) To assess the prevalence of proper disposal of inhalers at designated collection points (SIGRE); (2) To identify factors associated with improved management of inhaler waste; and (3) To evaluate whether patient education interventions enhance proper waste management practices. Material and Methods This multicentre, observational, prospective study involves 42 hospitals across Spain and includes adult patients with uncontrolled severe asthma undergoing biological treatment. Clinical data are extracted from electronic health records, and a 16-item survey covering general health, environmental impact, and waste management is administered (phase 1). Additionally, an educational infographic on the environmental impact and proper disposal of inhalers has been developed for patient education and to be assessed consequently (phase 2). A minimum sample size of 394 patients was required. The study has been approved by the ethics committee. Results We present interim results from the first 2 months of the ongoing study (phase 1), during which 244 patients were recruited, with an average age of 55.9 years (SD: 13.8); 34.2% were female. Of the participants, 59.4% used two or three different inhaler devices; 77.5% used pressurised inhalers. Notably, 68.0% of patients believe that inhalers have the same or less environmental impact as other medications. Although 91.4% were aware of the SIGRE collection point, only 69.2% used it, and just 46,3% disposed their inhalers there, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Conclusion and Relevance The GIMAFH project demonstrates the critical role of hospital pharmacists in empowering patients towards sustainable inhaler waste management. Although these are interim results, they reveal significant gaps in patient awareness and practices that this ongoing study aims to address. The project’s framework can potentially be expanded to other hospital pharmacies to promote environmentally sustainable practices in healthcare. References and/or Acknowledgements Conflict of Interest No conflict of interest
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4408375930