CHARACTERIZATION OF WASTEWATER FROM HEALTH FACILITIES: CASE OF THE HOSPITAL OF TREICHVILLE IN ABIDJAN, COTE DIVOIRE

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify pollutants and contaminants in the wastewater generated by the Treichville Hospital, to assess their potential impact on the environment and public health, and to propose appropriate treatment and management methods to reduce this impact. The methodology used for this study included the selection of four sampling points in the hospitals wastewater system. Samples were collected and analyzed for different parameters, including overall pollution parameters (pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, etc.) and drug residues (anticancer drugs and antibiotics). The results showed that the wastewater generated by the Hospital of Treichville is highly contaminated with organic matter. Ammonium levels in the wastewater discharges from Treichville Hospital were high. All targeted anticancer and antibiotic molecules were detected in the wastewater of the hospital. Concentrations of 5-fluorouracil were above the PNEC (predicted no effect concentration), while concentrations of cyclophosphamide and ifosfamide were below the PNEC. These results indicate that the presence of drug residues in the environment poses a potential risk to human and ecosystem health. In conclusion, measures must be taken to effectively treat these wastewaters to minimize their impact on the environment and public health.