Antibiotic Resistance: A Global Threat

Problems

Despite the success of antibiotics, antibiotic resistance has become a substantial problem. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria no longer respond to antibiotics, making infections harder to treat. It is a growing threat to public health worldwide.

What causes antibiotic resistance?

Antibiotic resistance can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Improper or overuse of antibiotics. 
• Not completing the full course of antibiotics. 
• Use of antibiotics for viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. 
• Inappropriate antibiotic use in agriculture. 

Targeted and cautious approach

The Netherlands is more cautious about the use of antibiotics than many other European countries. This helps to control antibiotic resistance. However, combating antibiotic resistance is a continuous effort that requires the active participation of both medical personnel and the population at large.

Five reasons why tackling antimicrobial resistance is hugely important

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when micro-organisms acquire the capacity to endure exposure to antimicrobial agents that are specifically formulated to eradicate them.

Annual infections and deaths:

• In 2020, over 800,000 people in Europe were infected by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The resultant diseases included pneumonia and intra-abdominal infections. 
• Each day, nearly 100 people die from conditions associated with AMR. Deaths from drug-resistant infections increased annually between 2016 and 2019, totalling 35,000 deaths per year. 

Spread to various sectors:

• Bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics are found not only in humans, but also in animals, plants, food and in the environment, further increasing the risk of contamination. 
• Consumption of antibiotics in humans is now higher than in food-producing animals, although use in animals still poses a risk for transmission to humans through food and direct contact. 

Healthcare costs:

• The estimated cost of AMR for healthcare systems in Europe is € 1.1 billion per year. When an infection does not respond to a first-line antimicrobial treatment, healthcare professionals turn to more expensive alternatives, such as second- and third-line antibiotics (the last treatment options available). 
• Resistance to these last options is increasing, resulting in longer hospital stays, with the corresponding costs. 

Economic impact:

• Prolonged sickness and mortality have a direct impact on our economies. 
• AMR can also disrupt the trade of livestock and livestock products, as it affects animals’ productivity. 

Future outlook:

• If no effective action is taken, the potential economic losses resulting from the impact of AMR will be substantial. In a pessimistic high-AMR scenario, the economic costs are projected to be severe, with a global GDP loss of 3.8% in 2050. Global GDP refers to the total value of all goods and services produced worldwide over a given period of time, usually a year. Global GDP loss can have significant economic consequences, including lower incomes, reduced employment and stagnation of economic growth.

Preventing antibiotic resistance

It is important to note that completely preventing antibiotic resistance is impossible. However, using antibiotics appropriately can reduce the chances of antibiotic resistance developing.

Appropriate antibiotic use:

• It's important to use antibiotics only when it is necessary and they should always as directed by a doctor. 
• It is particularly important to take antibiotics exactly as they've been prescribed (dose and duration), even if you no longer feel the symptoms of an infection. Stopping a course of antibiotics early makes it easier for antibiotic-resistant bacteria to survive. 
• Avoiding overuse and unnecessary use of antibiotics helps to maintain their long-term effectiveness. 

Antibiotics as emergency treatment:

• While antibiotics can be life-saving for severe bacterial infections, it's important to remember that most infections can be treated without antibiotics. 
• Our body's immune system can fight many infections naturally. For mild infections, it may be a good idea to try other treatments first before resorting to antibiotics. 

By being mindful about the use of antibiotics and considering antibiotics as a treatment option that needs to be used sparingly, we can help maintain their effectiveness and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Responsible use of antibiotics

It is crucial to use antibiotics responsibly to maintain their effectiveness. You can contribute to the fight against antibiotic resistance and help protect future generations by following the above-listed steps. 

Antibiotic resistance is a serious problem that requires serious attention. Together, we can ensure that antibiotics remain effective so that we can successfully treat infections in the future.  

Conclusion

Antibiotic resistance is a global problem that requires a coordinated approach. By using antibiotics with caution, taking precautions and using them only when necessary, we can slow the advance of antibiotic resistance and maintain the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations. 

For more information and expert advice on antibiotic resistance, please contact Dokteronline. Our team of experts is ready to answer any questions you may have and provide you with reliable medical information.  

For more information, read our article: Understanding the Risks of Antibiotic Resistance