Waste management in disease prevention: A public health overview

TL;DR

Poor waste management increases disease risks, and integrated solutions are needed to protect public and environmental health.

Contribution

This review synthesizes evidence linking waste mismanagement to various diseases and advocates for multi-sectoral solutions.

Findings

Poor waste management is linked to higher rates of vector-borne and waterborne diseases.

Electronic and healthcare waste pose specific health risks due to hazardous materials.

Circular economy-based waste management is recommended for better health outcomes.

Abstract

The rapid rise in urbanization and consumption has intensified global solid waste generation, creating pressing public health
challenges. Improper waste disposal contributes to infectious diseases via vector proliferation, water and soil contamination and direct
exposure to hazardous materials. This review synthesizes evidence on health risks from municipal, healthcare and electronic waste while
evaluating interventions within the integrated solid waste management framework. Data shows the link between poor waste management and
increased incidence of vector-borne, waterborne, respiratory and chronic diseases. An integrated, multi-sectoral approach grounded in
circular economy principles is essential to safeguard human and environmental health.