+1 (202) 780-3397
Rapid Communication - Allied Journal of Medical Research (2024) Volume 8, Issue 6
Antimicrobial Resistance: A Threat to Global Health and Healthcare Systems
Chunlei Shi *
Department of Virology, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom.
- *Corresponding Author:
- Chunlei Shi
Department of Virology
University of Greenwich
United Kingdom
E-mail: clsh@sjtu.edu.uk
Received:02-Nov-2024,Manuscript No. AAAJMR-24-152816; Editor assigned:04-Nov-2024,PreQC No. AAAJMR-24-152816 (PQ); Reviewed:18-Nov-2024,QC No. AAAJMR-24-152815; Revised:25-Nov-2024, Manuscript No. AAAJMR-24-152816(R); Published:30-Nov-2024,DOI:10.35841/aaajmr-8.6.267
Citation: Shi C. Antimicrobial resistance: A threat to global health and healthcare systems. Allied J Med Res. 2024;8(6):267
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most significant public health challenges of the 21st century. It occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites—evolve mechanisms to resist the drugs that once killed them or inhibited their growth. This resistance makes infections harder to treat and increases the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death. The rise of AMR threatens to undo decades of medical progress, undermining treatments for common infections, cancer therapies, and even routine surgeries. Antimicrobial resistance can develop through several mechanisms. Microorganisms may acquire resistance through mutation (a change in their genetic material) or horizontal gene transfer (the movement of genes between organisms). These mechanisms allow the microorganisms to evade the action of antimicrobial agents. Some of the most common methods [1,2].
Some bacteria produce enzymes that break down or inactivate antibiotics, rendering them ineffective. Microbes may modify the target site that the antimicrobial drug interacts with, preventing the drug from binding to it effectively. Some bacteria use efflux pumps to expel antibiotics from their cells, preventing the drugs from accumulating to effective levels. Altered cell membranes or cell wall structures can prevent antibiotics from entering the microorganism.Several factors contribute to the rise of antimicrobial resistance, making it a complex and multifaceted issue. The inappropriate or excessive use of antibiotics is one of the most significant contributors to AMR. This includes using antibiotics for viral infections (such as the common cold or flu) where they are ineffective, or not completing a prescribed course of antibiotics, allowing resistant bacteria to survive and multiply. The widespread use of antibiotics in livestock to prevent disease and promote growth has led to the emergence of resistant bacteria. These bacteria can be transmitted to humans through the food supply, direct contact with animals, or environmental contamination. There has been a slowdown in the development of new antibiotics in recent years, mainly due to the high cost of drug development, regulatory hurdles, and the limited financial incentive for pharmaceutical companies. As a result, the existing antibiotics are losing their effectiveness, and fewer alternatives are available [3,4].
Poor infection prevention and control practices in healthcare settings, such as hospitals and nursing homes, can facilitate the spread of resistant infections. The movement of people and goods across borders can spread resistant bacteria rapidly. Resistance in one part of the world can easily make its way to other regions, exacerbating the global nature of the problem. The consequences of AMR are far-reaching. Infections that were once treatable with common antibiotics are becoming harder to manage. This can result in longer hospital stays, more intensive care, and a higher risk of complications. Resistant infections contribute to higher mortality rates, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with weakened immune systems. The cost of treating drug-resistant infections is rising, both for individuals and healthcare systems. More expensive drugs, longer treatment courses, and prolonged hospitalizations lead to significant economic strain. AMR poses a direct threat to complex medical procedures such as organ transplants, cancer treatments, and surgeries. These procedures rely on effective antibiotics to prevent infections, and without them, the risk of complications becomes significantly higher. [5,6].
Addressing AMR requires a multi-pronged approach, involving governments, healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and the general public. Some of the key strategies include. The judicious use of antibiotics is essential. This includes prescribing antibiotics only when necessary, using the right drug at the right dose, and ensuring patients complete their prescribed courses. Strengthening infection control practices, such as proper hand hygiene, sterilization of medical equipment, and isolation of infected patients, can reduce the spread of resistant bacteria in healthcare settings. Enhanced surveillance of antimicrobial use and resistance patterns is vital for tracking the spread of resistance and informing treatment decisions. Governments and the private sector need to invest in the development of new antibiotics, as well as alternative therapies such as vaccines, phage therapy, and immunotherapies [7,8].
Raising awareness about the dangers of AMR and the importance of responsible antibiotic use is crucial. Educating the public, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the issue can help curb the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. Reducing the use of antibiotics in agriculture and ensuring that livestock antibiotics are only used under appropriate conditions can help reduce the spread of resistant bacteria from animals to humans [9,10].
Conclusion
Antimicrobial resistance is an urgent global health issue that requires coordinated efforts to mitigate its impact. Without concerted action, we risk returning to an era where even the most common infections could become life-threatening. Through responsible use of antibiotics, improved infection control, and the development of new therapies, we can slow the rise of AMR and preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobial drugs for future generations.
References
- Wise RA, Koob GF. The development and maintenance of drug addiction. Neuropsychopharmacol. 2014;39(2):254-62.
- Roozen HG, Boulogne JJ, van Tulder MW, et al. A systematic review of the effectiveness of the community reinforcement approach in alcohol, cocaine and opioid addiction. Drug Alcohol Depend. 2004;74(1):1-3.
- Stengel CM, Mane F, Guise A, et al. “They accept me, because I was one of them”: Formative qualitative research supporting the feasibility of peer-led outreach for people who use drugs in Dakar, Senegal.Harm Reduct. J. 2018;15:1-2.
- Garami J, Haber P, Myers CE, et al. Intolerance of uncertainty in opioid dependency-Relationship with trait anxiety and impulsivity.PloS One. 2017;12(7):0181955.
- Ciccarone D, Ondocsin J, Mars SG. Heroin uncertainties: Exploring users perceptions of fentanyl-adulterated and-substituted ‘heroin’. Int J Drug Policy. 2017;46:146-55.
- Cummings SR, Eckert S, Krueger KA, et al. The effect of raloxifene on risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women: Results from the MORE randomised trial. JAMA. 1999;281:2189-97.
- Cryer PC, Davidson L, Styles CP, et al. Descriptive epidemiology of injury in the south east: identifying priorities for action. Public Health. 1996;110:331-38.
- Kannus P, Parkkari J, Koskinen S, et al. Fall-induced injuries and deaths among older adults. JAMA. 1999;281:1895-99.
- Tinetti ME, Williams CS. Falls, injuries due to falls and the risk of admission to a nursing home. N Engl J Med. 1997;337:1279-84.
- Rizzo JA, Friedkin R, Williams CS, et al. Health care utilisation and costs in a Medicare population by fall status. Med Care. 1998;36:1174-88.