Zap that needle
Earlier this year scientists claimed that unsafe healthcare practices are a
major cause of the spread of HIV and that the virus is only transmitted sexually
in about 33% of all cases. Their evidence suggests that "health care
exposures caused more HIV than sexual transmission", with contaminated
medical injections being the biggest risk.
The scientists work was published in a three paper set in the International
Journal of STD and AIDS. Their work was disputed by UNAids who say that there
are insufficient studies to support their claim. While their papers estimate 60% of
HIV infections are caused by contaminated needles , the UNAids organisation says
that this figure is closer to 5%, contending that unsafe sexual practices
continues to be the major cause of HIV transmission.
However, even just one percent is enough to warrant new technologies and
establishment of best practices in prevention of disease spread by contaminated
needles. We take a look at some recent technology in the safe disposal of
needles.
NeedleZap
 It
has been estimated that there are over one million accidental needle sticks in
the US annually. The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved
NeedleZap® an innovative hypodermic needle destruction device. The NeedleZap®
was initially invented specifically to help reduce accidental needle stick
injuries in the workplace.
When a used hypodermic needle is inserted into the unit, it makes contact
with two electrodes. The electrodes cause the needle to quickly heat to 1,204.44
degrees C (2,200 degrees F) eliminating the needle in a second or two, leaving
the syringe intact. With the approval order from the FDA, the applications for
the NeedleZap® unit are diversified and include health care facilities,
clinics, treatment centers, dental, veterinary and law enforcement
organizations.
Global Marketing Group, Inc. (GMG), owns the marketing and distribution
rights to NeedleZap® in Africa. E Med Future, Inc. (OTCBB: EMDF) is the
manufacturer of NeedleZap®. GMG spokesperson, Marty DuBois states, "Once a
needle is destroyed by NeedleZap®, the contaminated sharp is eliminated,
preventing accidental or intentional reuse of the needle. By getting rid of the
hypodermic needle completely, we feel that NeedleZap® will have a very positive
effect on helping to controlling the spread of diseases and infections from
contaminated needles."
The NeedleZap® product is a portable device that is rechargeable AC or DC
and is intended to destroy previously used 16-30 gauge aluminum and stainless
steel needles that are 1.9 cm - 5.08 cm (¾ - 2 inches) in length, attached to
syringes. NeedleZap® measures 7.62 cm x 10.16 cm x 5.08 cm (3" x 4" x
2" inches) and weighs 0.635 kg (1.4 lb.). Because of NeedleZap® size and
portability it can be deployed at the point of procedure (i.e., the patient) in
most health care applications.
Given the alarming spread of HIV, the number of accidental needle sticks in
medical work places and the fatal diseases that can result from the improper
disposal of needles, NeedleZap® is both timely and can cost effectively help
combat this universal problem.
More information
The NeedleZap® unit retails for $200.00 USD plus shipping and handling. It
has a life expectancy of 3-5 years depending on use. For purchase, distribution
or general information on the product contact:
Marty DuBois
Global Marketing Group, Inc.
001-708-728-0655 (phone)
001-708-594-5880 (fax) or
e-mail: mdubois@global-mkgt.com
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