Inhalers Used for Asthma and COPD Can Contribute to Climate Change, Study Finds
Inhalers commonly used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have been identified as a significant source of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change, according to a recent study. The study highlights the importance of choosing the right therapy and appliance for patients, taking into consideration their needs and characteristics, and opting for devices with minimal impact on the climate whenever possible.
The Belgian Center for Pharmacotherapeutic Information (BCFI) has compiled a list of inhaler specialties that contain the most polluting gases. This information can help healthcare professionals and patients make informed decisions about their treatment options.
The study also emphasizes the health risks associated with climate change. The World Organization for Family Medicine (WONCA) and the Lancet have reported visible consequences of climate change on human health, including an increase in cardiovascular and respiratory morbidity and mortality, infectious diseases, malnutrition, and deterioration in mental health. Urgent action is needed to protect human health in the face of the climate crisis, as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO).
In addition to the impact on human health, the medical sector itself contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. The Lancet report “Countdown on health and climate change” reveals that the health sector was responsible for 4 to 6% of greenhouse gas emissions in 2017, mainly due to the supply chain, including the production, transport, and handling of goods and services, including pharmaceuticals.
The study specifically focuses on the environmental impact of inhalers used in asthma and COPD. Inhalers can deliver the active substance in different ways, either through pressurized aerosol cans or through inhalation powders. The carbon footprint of these different forms of propulsion varies, with inhalation powders and mechanical release aerosols having a lower carbon footprint compared to metered dose aerosols containing propellants such as HFA134a and HFA227ea.
While it is recommended to prefer powder inhalers or mechanical release devices to reduce the impact on the climate, the choice of inhaler depends on the patient’s condition and symptoms. Some patients, such as the elderly or those with impaired respiratory function, may not be able to use powder inhalers effectively. Furthermore, not all bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids are available in the most ecological forms.
To limit the impact of treatments on the climate, it is crucial to ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment for their condition and use it correctly. The BCFI will now include information about the climate impact of medicines in its publications, providing practical tips whenever possible.
The medical world must adapt to the challenges associated with climate change, and healthcare professionals and patients can contribute by making environmentally conscious choices. By considering the climate impact of inhalers and opting for the least polluting devices, the healthcare sector can play its part in mitigating climate change while providing effective treatment for patients with asthma and COPD.
Sources:
1. Declaration calling for family doctors of the world to act on planetary health. WONCA September 2019.
2. The 2020 report of the Lancet Countdown on health and climate change: responding to converging crises. Lancet 2021; 397: 129-70.
3. WHO urges accelerated action to protect human health and combat the climate crisis at a time of heightened conflict and fragility.
4. Decarbonize health for sustainable care. TSP Health 2021.
5. French Health Care’s Climate Footprint. Health Care Without Harm.se inhalers with a lower impact on the climate. This can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to mitigating climate change.
It is important for healthcare professionals to consider the environmental impact of the therapies they prescribe. By choosing inhalers with a lower carbon footprint, they can contribute to a more sustainable healthcare system.
Furthermore, patients also play a role in reducing the environmental impact of their treatments. It is crucial for them to use their inhalers correctly and follow the prescribed treatment plan. This not only ensures better health outcomes but also minimizes waste and reduces the need for additional medications.
The BCFI (Belgian Centre for Pharmacotherapeutic Information) is taking steps to address the climate impact of medications. They now list the specialties in the Repertory that contain the most polluting gases. This information can help healthcare professionals make informed decisions when prescribing medications.
In conclusion, the use of inhalers in asthma and COPD can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. However, by choosing inhalers with a lower impact on the climate and ensuring appropriate treatment for patients, healthcare professionals and patients can make a positive impact on the environment. The medical world must continue to prioritize sustainability and take steps to reduce its carbon footprint.
What are the environmental impacts of inhalers commonly used for treating asthma and COPD?
Inhalers commonly used for treating asthma and COPD have been identified as a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, thus impacting climate change, according to a recent study. It highlights the importance of selecting the right therapies and devices with minimal environmental impact while addressing patients’ needs and characteristics.
The Belgian Centre for Pharmacotherapeutic Information (BCFI) has compiled a list of inhaler specialties containing the most polluting gases, providing essential information for healthcare professionals and patients to make informed decisions regarding treatment options.
The study also underlines the health risks associated with climate change, as reported by the World Organization for Family Medicine (WONCA) and the Lancet. These risks include increased respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses, infectious diseases, malnutrition, and deteriorating mental health. Urgent action is required to protect human health from the climate crisis, as emphasized by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Furthermore, the medical sector itself contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Lancet report “Countdown on health and climate change,” the healthcare sector accounted for 4 to 6% of greenhouse gas emissions in 2017, primarily due to the supply chain, including the production, transportation, and handling of goods and services, including pharmaceuticals.
The study specifically focuses on the environmental impact of inhalers used for asthma and COPD. Inhalers can deliver the active substance through pressurized aerosol cans or inhalation powders. The carbon footprint varies among these propulsion methods, with inhalation powders and mechanical release aerosols having a lower footprint compared to metered dose aerosols with propellants like HFA134a and HFA227ea.
While powder inhalers or mechanical release devices are recommended to minimize climate impact, the choice of inhaler depends on the patient’s condition and symptoms. Some patients, like the elderly or those with respiratory impairments, may not be able to effectively use powder inhalers. Additionally, not all bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids are available in the most ecologically friendly forms.
To reduce the impact of treatments on the climate, it is imperative to ensure patients receive appropriate treatment and use it correctly. The BCFI plans to include information on the climate impact of medicines in its publications, offering practical tips when feasible.
The medical community must adapt to the challenges posed by climate change, and healthcare professionals and patients can contribute by making environmentally conscious choices. Considering the climate impact of inhalers and opting for less polluting devices allows the healthcare sector to mitigate climate change while providing effective treatment for asthma and COPD patients.
Sources:
1. Declaration calling for family doctors to act on climate change. (WONCA)
2. The Lancet Countdown reports on climate and health. (The Lancet)
3. Health and climate change: policy responses to protect public health. (WHO)
This article highlights the urgent need to consider the environmental impact of inhalers in the fight against climate change. It provides valuable insights for patients to make informed choices, emphasizing the importance of selecting the best option that minimizes harm to our planet.