PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICES, AND PREDICTORS OF MEDICATION DISPOSAL: A MALAYSIAN CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY USING SELF-ORGANISING MAP ANALYSIS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55766/sujst9526Keywords:
Disposal Behaviours, Disposal Practices, Home Medication, Self-Organising Maps (SOM)Abstract
The improper disposal of unused and expired medications poses significant environmental and health risks. This study assesses home medication disposal knowledge and practices among visitors to the discharge pharmacy at Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun (HRPB), Perak, Malaysia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, with data analysed using descriptive statistics and Self-Organising Maps (SOM) to identify behavioural patterns. Findings revealed that over 60% of respondents lacked knowledge of proper disposal methods, with a concerning 50.8% resorting to unsafe disposal of household garbage. However, 82.1% expressed interest in learning safe disposal practices and identified pharmacists as their preferred source of information, highlighting opportunities for pharmacist-led public education. Advanced analysis using SOM revealed distinct patterns in disposal behaviours, with female respondents exhibiting greater awareness than males. Individuals with tertiary education were clustered in regions of lower awareness, a finding potentially explained by the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), which suggests a perceived lower risk. Unemployed individuals and those storing large quantities of expired medications showed poorer disposal practices. These findings highlight significant knowledge gaps and opportunities for targeted interventions. Strengthening regulatory frameworks and the implementation of accessible, structured medication return systems nationwide could further address these challenges. This study offers evidence-based insights into public knowledge and behaviour regarding pharmaceutical waste disposal in Malaysia, supported by advanced analytical techniques. These findings also suggest potential directions for enhancing medication waste management strategies.
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