Antibacterial resistance (AMR) is a significant concern in health sectors globally and is now deemed a cause of more deaths than HIV/AIDS or malaria. The Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) report highlighted that in 2019, AMR resulted in 1.27 million fatalities. The primary medical conditions contributing to these deaths include lower respiratory infections like pneumonia and sepsis-inducing bloodstream infections. Certain microbes, such as MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) and E.coli, have exhibited potent drug resistance, causing these diseases.
Understanding Antimicrobial Resistance
AMR develops when microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites, etc., develop resistance against antimicrobial drugs including antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimalarials, and anthelmintics. As a result, standard treatments fail to cure infections, allowing them to persist and possibly spread. These resistant microorganisms are often labelled as “superbugs”. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), AMR ranks among the top ten threats to global health.
Causes behind the Spread of AMR
Misuse of antimicrobials in medicine and inappropriate use in agriculture contribute significantly to the spread of AMR. Similarly, contamination around pharmaceutical manufacturing sites due to the release of untreated waste carrying active antimicrobials also exacerbates the problem.
The Situation in India
India, characterized by its large population, easy over-the-counter access to antibiotics, high levels of infectious diseases, and escalating incomes facilitating antibiotic purchase, is a significant hub for the production of resistance genes. Over 56,000 newborn deaths occur annually due to antibiotic-resistant sepsis. In addition, when Covid patients contract drug-resistant infections in hospitals, the mortality rate jumps to 50-60%.
Addressing AMR – Measures Taken in India
Efforts to combat AMR include the National Programme on AMR containment launched in 2012 and the National Action Plan on AMR initiated in 2017 focusing on the One Health approach. Furthermore, the AMR Surveillance and Research Network (AMRSN) was started in 2013 to record trends of drug-resistant infections, and the ICMR has initiated global partnerships to develop new drugs.
Global Measures Against AMR
The World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is an annual awareness drive started in 2015 to propagate best practices among the general public, health workers, and policymakers. The WHO also introduced the Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS) the same year to bridge knowledge gaps on AMR.