In recent years, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a serious global health issue. This means that some infections are becoming harder to treat because bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites are evolving and no longer respond to medications that used to work. As a result, common infections could become untreatable, making even routine surgeries risky.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that AMR is one of the top health threats today. Millions of people get infections from drug-resistant germs each year, leading to longer hospital stays and higher medical costs. If we don’t take action, AMR could lead to an estimated 10 million deaths each year by 2050.
One major reason for AMR is the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. In many places, people can get antibiotics without a prescription, which leads to self-medication and improper use. In farming, antibiotics are often given to animals not just to treat illness but also to help them grow faster. This misuse speeds up the development of resistant germs, which can spread to humans through the food supply.
AMR has serious implications for healthcare. Common procedures like surgeries and cancer treatments become riskier when effective antibiotics are not available. Hospitals face more infections and complications, which can delay patient recovery.
To tackle AMR, we need a coordinated global effort with several key strategies: Raising awareness through public education campaigns is essential to inform people about the risks of antibiotic misuse and the importance of following medical advice.
Hospitals should implement stewardship programs to ensure antibiotics are prescribed only when necessary and that the correct medications are chosen. Additionally, governments need to tighten regulations on antibiotic use in agriculture and healthcare to ensure these medications are used only when absolutely necessary.
Investing in research to develop new antibiotics and alternative treatments, such as vaccines, is crucial for staying ahead of resistant strains. Furthermore, countries must collaborate to share information and develop strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Everyone can play a role in fighting AMR by using antibiotics wisely, which means only taking them when prescribed by a healthcare professional and always completing the full course.
Practicing good hygiene, such as regular hand washing and safe food handling, can help prevent infections. It’s also important to stay informed about AMR and share that knowledge with family and friends.
AMR poses a significant threat to global health and requires urgent attention. By understanding its causes and taking proactive steps, we can protect ourselves and future generations from the dangers of untreatable infections. The time to act is now. Together, we can make a difference.
(The writer is a Subject Matter Specialist at ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Umiam. He can be reached at drmoloysb@gmail.com)
