Study Finds Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Has High Carbon Footprint

A recent study conducted at AIG Hospitals in India has highlighted the significant environmental impact of gastrointestinal endoscopy (GIE) procedures. The research, carried out between May 29 and June 10, 2023, assessed 3,873 procedures on 3,244 patients to determine the carbon footprint associated with GIE. The findings, published in the Gut journal, provide a comprehensive analysis of the emissions generated by these medical procedures.

Key Findings on Carbon Footprint

According to the study, each GIE procedure generates an average carbon footprint of 38.45 kg CO₂e. While this number may seem small on its own, it becomes substantial when considering the thousands of procedures performed annually in healthcare institutions. For instance, a hospital conducting 10,000 endoscopies per year would produce approximately 384,500 kg CO₂e, necessitating around 17,500 mature trees to offset the emissions.

The most significant discovery is that travel by patients contributes to 83.09% of total emissions. The research study emphasizes the need for enhanced access to healthcare, increased telemedicine adoption, and localized services to reduce unnecessary travel.

Factors Causing Emissions

The research study has identified seven factors responsible for the carbon footprint of GIE procedures:

Electricity and water usage

Medical waste

Patient travel

Transportation of medical gases

Endoscope usage

Accessories

Disinfectants

The researchers found that 25.7% of the medical waste produced could be recycled, thereby saving 380 kg CO₂e over two weeks.

Carbon Footprint Mitigation Strategies in Healthcare

Some of the suggestions from the study for hospitals and healthcare facilities to minimize their impact on the environment are as follows:

Optimizing Resource Use: Hospitals must focus on energy-efficient equipment and sustainable resource consumption.

Reduction of Repeat Procedures: Enhanced diagnostic accuracy and efficiency in procedures may help reduce the number of repeat endoscopies that are unnecessary.

Waste Management: Increased recycling programs and responsible disposal may help significantly reduce emissions.

Exploring Non-Invasive Alternatives: Promoting non-invasive diagnostic techniques will further reduce the emissions associated with endoscopic procedures.

Strengthening Telemedicine Services: Increased telehealth options can reduce the need for travel by patients and associated emissions.

This may also call for establishing departments to work towards achieving sustainability.

Solution: Environmental Sustainability Challenges in the Health Sector

Healthcare industries have recently been identified to have a part in minimizing their negative effects on the environment. Currently, medical interventions are performed widely and require implementing measures that improve hospital operations regarding sustainability.

The study points to the need to address emissions associated with high volume procedures like GIE. Therefore, through a targeted approach to strategy implementation, hospitals can really reduce their carbon footprint and thereby contribute to mitigating climate change.

Conclusion

The findings from this study provide critical insights into the environmental challenges associated with GIE procedures. Addressing these concerns through optimized healthcare practices, waste reduction, and sustainable resource management can lead to a more environmentally responsible medical sector.

Source: The Indian Express