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Type:	Artigo de Periódico
Title:	Embracing a sustainable approach in gynecology and obstetrics: the surgeon's duty to safeguard both patient and environment
Other Titles:	Adotando uma abordagem sustentável em ginecologia e obstetrícia: o dever do cirurgião de proteger o paciente e o meio ambiente
Authors:	Agnaldo Lopes da Silva Filho Eduardo Batista Cândido
Abstract:	The detrimental effects of climate change on global health and wellbeing have become increasingly apparent and concerning. According to the World Health Organization (WHO),1 climate change is projected to cause an additional 250,000 deaths per year between 2030 and 2050, due to malnutrition, malaria, diarrhea, and heat stress. Unfortunately, the healthcare sector also contributes to the problem,as it is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 4.6% of total emissions in 2017.2 The operating theater is one of the most energy-intensive areas within healthcare facilities, with energy consumption rates three to six times higher than those of other hospital areas.3,4 Medical waste production and the emission of harmful anesthetic agents during surgical procedures further exacerbate the environmental impact of healthcare.5 To address these environmental issues, the concept of “green surgery” has emerged as a promising solution. Green surgery involves incorporating environmentally friendly materials and practices that conserve energy, reduce waste,and minimize greenhouse gas emissions, while still ensurin mhigh-quality patient care.4,5 In this editorial, we aim to provide a comprehensive examination of the importanceof green surgery, with a specific focus on its application in gynecological and obstetric surgeries. We will explore the benefits, strategies, and challenges of incorporating green surgery into surgical practices, and provide insights into its potential to reduce the environmental impact of surgical procedures and promote sustainability in healthcare.Sustainability in health systems, as defined by the WHO, is a comprehensive approach that balances health outcomes with minimizing environmental harm. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of health and the environment and stresses the importance of considering both when delivering healthcare services.3 To achieve this goal, it is crucial to educate healthcare professionals about metrics related to greenhouse gas emissions, life cycle analysis, and strategies for reducing environmental impact in healthcare.The 5Rs rule—reduce, reuse, recycle, rethink, and research—can be effectively applied in medical practice, particularly inthe operating room, to promote eco-friendly practices.6 Adopting green surgery practices, which include minimizing waste, reducing energy and water consumption, implementing sustainable supply chain management, and prioritizing the use of renewable energy systems, is a crucial aspect of promoting sustainable healthcare (►Fig. 1). These efforts not only increase the sustainability of healthcare facilities bualso align with the principles of environmental responsibility in the healthcare sector. By reducing their carbon footprint,medical facilities demonstrate their commitment to creating a more sustainable future for the planet
Subject:	Diagnostic Techniques, Obstetrical and Gynecologicalgico Environmental Policy
language:	eng
metadata.dc.publisher.country:	Brasil
Publisher:	Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais
Publisher Initials:	UFMG
metadata.dc.publisher.department:	MED - DEPARTAMENTO DE GINECOLOGIA OBSTETRÍCIA
Rights:	Acesso Aberto
metadata.dc.identifier.doi:	10.1055/s-0043-1772472
URI:	http://hdl.handle.net/1843/78296
Issue Date:	2023
metadata.dc.url.externa:	https://www.scielo.br/j/rbgo/a/FSy86HqNr788GChB6L5xqTR/?format=pdf
metadata.dc.relation.ispartof:	Revista o Brasileira de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia
Appears in Collections:	Artigo de Periódico

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