Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), commonly known as antibiotic resistance, is one of the most significant public health threats in today’s world. The growing number of multi-resistant bacteria, combined with a lack of new antibiotics, has brought us to the brink of losing effective therapeutic options. In some cases, patients are left in desperate situations as bacteria become resistant to all available antibiotics. This threat is not abstract but has concrete impacts on global health, with severe consequences for mortality rates, extended hospital stays, and soaring economic costs.
What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)?
AMR occurs when microorganisms, like bacteria, develop the ability to survive and continue multiplying despite the presence of antibiotics that would normally destroy them or halt their growth. Bacteria can develop resistance through genetic mutations or by acquiring genes from other bacteria that have already developed resistance. Unfortunately, this process is accelerated by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics.
While antibiotics are vital in fighting bacterial infections, their misuse—including using them to treat viral infections or preventively—contributes to the spread of resistance. For example, antibiotics are often prescribed for respiratory infections, which are usually caused by viruses, despite antibiotics being ineffective against viruses. Additionally, the use of antibiotics in veterinary and food industries contributes to the spread of resistant bacterial strains that can be transmitted to humans.
Impact of AMR on Global Health
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), each year in Europe, 25,000 people die from infections caused by multi-resistant bacteria, with hospital stays extended by 2.5 million days, resulting in a cost of 1.5 billion euros. If current trends continue, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimates that by 2050, AMR could become the leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for up to 700,000 deaths annually.
Antibiotic resistance is not a localized problem. Across the globe, bacteria are becoming increasingly resistant to our strongest medications. Some bacteria have developed resistance to all available antibiotics, leaving doctors with no effective treatment options for severe infections. Moreover, some “old” antibiotics, which are still effective, have been withdrawn from the market due to economic non-viability, despite their critical importance.
Preventive Measures and Responsible Antibiotic Use
Prevention is key in the fight against AMR. Bacteria can only develop resistance when exposed to antibiotics. Therefore, responsible use of antibiotics, prescribing them only when absolutely necessary, can significantly reduce the risk of resistance. However, this is not enough. Antibiotics should not be taken when they are not needed, especially for viral infections like colds, flu, or bronchitis.
Additionally, adhering to basic hygiene practices—such as regular handwashing, using tissues when coughing or sneezing, avoiding crowded places when ill, and getting vaccinated—is crucial. Respiratory infections, which are often the main reason for the overuse of antibiotics, can be prevented with simple measures.
Raising Awareness and Education
Educating the public of all age groups is of utmost importance. Promoting knowledge about the harmful effects of unnecessary antibiotic use and AMR should be an ongoing effort. Children, adults, and the elderly should be informed about when antibiotics are needed and how infections can be prevented. An essential aspect of education is understanding the importance of completing the full course of antibiotics, as this is crucial for preventing resistance and ensuring effective treatment.
Completing antibiotic therapy is vital for several reasons:
- Preventing the development of antibiotic resistance: If antibiotics are stopped too early, some bacteria may survive. These surviving bacteria often develop resistance, rendering the antibiotic ineffective for future infections.
- Complete elimination of infection: Stopping therapy prematurely may not fully cure the infection. Remaining bacteria can multiply again, leading to a recurrence, often in a more severe form.
- Reducing complications: Inadequately treated infections can lead to severe complications, including the spread of infection to other parts of the body, such as the bloodstream (sepsis).
- Protecting others: Discontinuing therapy can leave you carrying bacteria and potentially spreading them to others, endangering the health of those around you.
Therefore, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions, even if you start feeling better before completing the course, as symptomatic recovery does not mean all bacteria are eradicated.
Regular education of healthcare professionals on the latest guidelines for antibiotic prescribing is also essential in combating AMR.
A Joint Effort to Preserve Antibiotic Effectiveness!
Antimicrobial resistance is a global issue that requires collective action. If we do nothing, the world will face significant challenges in treating infections, leading to increased mortality and healthcare costs. Everyone, from individuals to international organizations, must take responsibility in the fight against AMR. This includes the rational use of antibiotics, infection prevention, developing new treatment options, and implementing AMR control strategies in both human and veterinary health sectors. By working together, we can preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations and ensure global health security.
Prepared by:
MSc. Pharm. Romana Galin
