A Brief Report on Sustainable Development and Medical Practice in Gabon: A 21st-Century Perspective

Integrating sustainable development principles into medical practice is increasingly important. For Gabon, a nation with distinct ecological and developmental contexts, understanding this intersection is vital for resilient health system planning. This brief report explored the perspectives and perceived challenges of integrating sustainable development goals (SDGs) into clinical obstetric and gynaecological practice in Gabon. A qualitative, exploratory approach was used. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of obstetrician-gynaecologists from public and private sectors in urban and semi-urban settings. Thematic analysis identified key patterns. Analysis revealed a strong consensus on the relevance of SDGs to maternal health, with particular emphasis on SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality). A significant proportion of participants linked unsustainable clinical practices, such as inadequate medical waste management, to environmental health risks for communities. Gabonese obstetrician-gynaecologists recognise the intrinsic link between sustainable development and their specialty. However, this awareness is not yet systematically operationalised within standard clinical protocols. Develop context-specific, practical guidelines for sustainable practice in obstetrics and gynaecology for Gabon. Incorporate sustainability principles into continuing medical education and health facility accreditation standards. Foster interdisciplinary collaboration between health professionals and environmental experts. Sustainable development, Gabon, obstetrics, gynaecology, medical practice, maternal health, qualitative research This report provides initial, practitioner-informed insights into the opportunities and barriers for embedding sustainable development within a key medical specialty in Gabon, offering a foundation for policy and practice development.