Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): The Silent Threat to Global Health
What is Antimicrobial Resistance?
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites become resistant to antibiotics, making them less effective against infections. This threatens global health security and the very essence of modern medicine.
Why is AMR a concern?
- Increased mortality: AMR can lead to higher mortality rates, longer hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs.
- Higher risk of infection: Resistant bacteria are harder to diagnose and treat, which increases the risk of complications or even death.
- Overuse and misuse: Overuse or misuse of antibiotics contributes to antibiotic resistance.
How is AMR spreading?
- Global trade: The export and import of products can facilitate the spread of AMR-resistant bacteria.
- Antibiotic use in human medicine and agriculture: Misuse or overuse of antibiotics in both humans and animals contribute to AMR.
- Environmental pollution: Antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents entered the environment through wastewater, where they can interact with microorganisms.
A healthy population is essential for addressing AMR but when antibiotic resistance becomes widespread it can happen that treatments become ineffective and healthcare systems are overwhelmed.