Understanding antimicrobial resistance, a serious global threat to public health
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, evolve and develop resistance to the antimicrobial drugs designed to treat infections caused by them. The misuse and overuse of antimicrobial drugs like antibiotics and antifungals pose severe implications for public health, food security, and the overall well-being of communities worldwide. Here is why antimicrobial resistance is considered a significant threat.
Treatment - A major challenge
Overuse and misuse of antibiotics cause spontaneous resistance to the immune system of the human body. This reduces the effectiveness of antimicrobial drugs, making it more difficult to treat infections. Common infections may become more severe and harder to manage, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Additionally, drug resistance impacts the health of animals thus reducing the productivity of farms and threatening food security.
Increased healthcare costs
Treating drug-resistant infections often requires more expensive and prolonged medical interventions. Patients with drug-resistant infections may require longer hospital stays, intensive care, or additional medical procedures like extensive diagnostic tests, and a variety of treatments which contribute to higher healthcare expenditures. Extended hospitalization contributes significantly to healthcare costs as ineffective antibiotics can lead to additional rounds of treatment.
Spread of infections
Resistant microorganisms can spread easily between people, animals, and the environment, making it challenging to contain the spread of drug-resistant infections. In some cases, antimicrobials are prescribed without a confirmed diagnosis of a bacterial infection. If the cause of the illness is viral or non-bacterial, the use of antibiotics is ineffective and may contribute to unnecessary selective pressure favoring the development of resistance.
Loss of effective treatment
As more microorganisms become resistant, the number of effective treatment options diminishes leading to a scenario where common infections, as well as certain medical procedures like surgeries and treatments, become riskier due to the lack of effective antimicrobial options. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi evolve to withstand the effects of medications, making infections more challenging to treat and increasing the risk of treatment failure.
Limited new drug development
The development of new antimicrobial drugs has lagged behind the emergence of resistance. Economic challenges and regulatory hurdles have contributed to a limited pipeline of new drugs, exacerbating the problem. The limited development of new antimicrobial drugs is a significant and concerning issue, often referred to as the "antibiotic pipeline problem." Pharmaceutical companies are deprioritizing antibiotic research in favor of more profitable ventures.
Impact on vulnerable populations
Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, and individuals with compromised immune systems, are particularly at risk. Resistant infections can be more severe and less treatable in these groups. Children with chronic illnesses or those requiring long-term medical interventions may be at risk of multi-drug-resistant infections. These infections can be challenging to treat and may result in prolonged hospitalizations.
