Health Perception and Environmental Risks Related to Biomedical Waste Management at the University Hospital Center of the Renaissance N’Djamena (Chad)

Abstract

This article presents the results of a survey conducted at the University Hospital Center (CHU) of the Renaissance in N’Djamena on the health perception and environmental risks related to biomedical waste management. A total of 100 respondents were interviewed, including healthcare personnel and the general public. The randomly selected sample is predominantly young, with 74% men and 26% women, with 47% age groups ranging from 18–30 years and 53% over 31 years. The distribution shows an over-representation of healthcare workers (38%) and a critical under-representation of cleaning staff (7%), who are nevertheless the most exposed. Most respondents are newly integrated, with a length of service less than one year (38%) to between one and five years (29%). The results reveal that most personnel are aware of the risks associated with poor waste management: 22% reported being exposed to accidents (needle sticks, splashes), and 46% believe that the waste has a significant environmental impact. The study also highlights a lack of information, the absence of visible procedures, and insufficient protective equipment. However, this study recommends strengthening training, establishing an effective waste management system, and promoting a health and environmental safety culture adapted to the realities of this university hospital Center.