News from the Board of Health

Sharps Disposal and Staying Sharp

Sharps Disposal

What do household trash, syringes and boards of health have in common? In 2012, the state banned the disposal of needles, syringes and lancets (referred to as “sharps”) in household trash. Around that time, the Department of Public Health estimated that about 2 million used needles are generated each week due to chronic disease and other medical conditions. This means that folks affected by this law are those who may monitor blood glucose or use injectable medication, like insulin, semaglutide or for migraine.

Improper disposal of needles and other sharps can pose a health and injury risk to people and pets at home, and sanitation staff in public settings. These injuries are painful! All needle stick injuries must be treated as if the needle were infected with a disease. These injuries can lead to costly medical testing and treatment and often bring anxiety.

Since 2012, boards of health have created sharps disposal plans. You can receive a free sharps disposal container either through the Franklin County Solid Waste Management District (FCSWMD) or your public health nurse. Empty sharps boxes can be picked up, and full ones dropped off, at Greenfield Health Department, 20 Sanderson St., Greenfield Monday-Friday 9 - 4. Find other locations at https://FranklinCountyWasteDistrict.org/Sharps or contact our public health nurse Lisa White at 413-774-3167 x 156.

Staying Sharp

On the topic of sharps, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN's chief medical correspondent, suggests these five key pillars to keep our brains sharp. They can help our brain health at any age!

Move Your Body: Regular physical activity is crucial for brain health, potentially slowing memory loss. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Stretch Your Mind: Keep your brain active with challenging activities like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills.

Rest Your Body and Brain: Prioritize 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help the brain consolidate memories and remove waste.

Fuel Your Brain: Eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods and healthy fats, and limit processed foods, sugar, and red meat.

Connect with Others: Strong social connections are vital for brain health and well-being.

For more information, find Dr. Gupta's book Keep Sharp or search online for his five pillars of brain health. Share what you learn with someone else! Even better, talk about it on a walk together.

Information from the Conway BOH is focused on our shared public health. Please consult your healthcare provider for your personal healthcare guidance.

For the most up to date information, please see the Town website and the BOH webpage conwayma.gov/g/42/Board-of-Health.

Posted: to Board of Health on Mon, Mar 17, 2025
Updated: Mon, Mar 17, 2025