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Published on: August 30, 2018
Inappropriate antimicrobial use and potential solutions: a Middle Eastern perspective.
Jaffar A Al-Tawfiq1, Gwen Stephens, Ziad A Memish
1Saudi Aramco Medical Services Organization, Dhahran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Expert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy
|July 1, 2010
Summary
Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global crisis. This study examines inappropriate antimicrobial use in the Middle East and proposes solutions to combat this public health threat.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Escalating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) necessitates multi-level strategies involving diverse stakeholders.
- The Middle East faces a critical AMR crisis, yet research on resistance drivers is limited.
- Inappropriate antimicrobial use is a significant, understudied factor contributing to AMR in the region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the factors contributing to inappropriate antimicrobial use in the Middle East.
- To propose evidence-based solutions for mitigating the escalating antimicrobial resistance crisis in the region.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of existing data on antimicrobial prescribing patterns.
- Exploration of socio-behavioral factors influencing antimicrobial consumption.
- Synthesis of regional and international best practices for AMR stewardship.
Main Results:
- Identified widespread inappropriate antimicrobial use across human and animal health sectors.
- Highlighted a lack of comprehensive AMR surveillance and regulatory frameworks in many Middle Eastern countries.
- Documented insufficient public awareness regarding the risks of antimicrobial misuse.
Conclusions:
- Multi-sectoral collaboration is crucial for developing and implementing effective AMR control strategies.
- Targeted interventions addressing inappropriate antimicrobial use are urgently needed in the Middle East.
- Enhanced public education and stricter regulations can significantly curb AMR proliferation.
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