Types of pharmaceuticals in homesteads in Eswatini: knowledge level of dangers of storage and disposal, and description of practices among home-dwellers in urban and rural settings

The dramatic increase in chemical production and trade during the past three decades has raised both public official concern about potential risks posed by hazardous chemicals pesticides medicines. With increased threat from HIV infection, many householders find themselves needing to access keep a complex diverse variety of pharmaceuticals. A cross-sectional, explorative qualitative survey was carried out among 329 households involving in-depth interviews observation investigate types pharmaceuticals found rural, peri-urban urban areas Eswatini, level knowledge disposal practices unused expired Eswatini does not have any laws that regulate management household results suggested majority homesteads (85%) stored unused, often left-over mainly for future use. associated with presence be very low no programmes were initiated local health authority or municipal councils enhance levels. Eighty-two different identified including analgesics (38%), antibiotics (27%), supplements (21%) others (14%). In areas, respondents reported they disposed waste into normal bins which are collected landfills dump sites while rural burn their backyards. findings this study suggest need further research determine availability surface, ground drinking water around country. Guidelines safe urgently developed educate should Eswatini.