EXPLORING GENERAL AWARENESS AND ATTITUDES TOWARDS DISPOSAL PRACTICE & STORAGE CONDITION OF MEDICATION AMONG THE GENERAL PUBLIC AT ACHROL, JAIPUR, RAJASTHAN (INDIA): A CROSS-SECTIONAL

Aim: This study aims to assess the awareness, attitudes, and practices of the general public in Achrol, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, regarding the disposal and storage of medications. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 250 participants using a semi-structured questionnaire to evaluate their knowledge, perception, and practices related to medication disposal and storage. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The findings revealed that 71.6% of participants had unused medications at home, with most individuals (50.8%) storing them until expiration. The most common disposal method was discarding in household trash (19.6%), followed by flushing (2%), burying (5.3%), and burning (1.6%). Only 11.2% returned medications to a pharmacy. Additionally, 80.8% of participants reported checking expiration dates before purchasing medications, but 16% never did. Lack of awareness about proper disposal methods was evident, with 54.8% never having received related guidance. Conclusions: The study highlights a significant gap in public awareness and practices regarding the proper disposal and storage of medications. Most respondents acknowledged the importance of proper disposal but lacked the necessary knowledge. Public awareness campaigns and structured programs are essential to mitigate improper disposal practices and potential environmental and health risks.