Antimicrobial stewardship - can we afford to do without it?

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a significant and escalating global health threat.
• The potential for a 'post-antibiotic era' necessitates urgent action to curb the development and spread of resistant organisms.
• AMR is linked to poorer patient prognoses and increased healthcare expenditures, with evidence suggesting a substantial burden in low and middle-income countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
• To emphasize the role of antibiotic use as a primary driver of AMR.
• To introduce antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASPs) as a key intervention strategy.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and data on AMR prevalence and impact.
• Analysis of the mechanisms driving AMR, particularly selection pressure from antibiotic use.
• Description of the principles and components of antimicrobial stewardship programmes.

Main Results:

• Antimicrobial resistance is associated with adverse patient outcomes and elevated healthcare costs.
• Antibiotic use is the most significant factor contributing to the development of AMR.
• Antimicrobial stewardship programmes are effective in controlling antimicrobial use.

Conclusions:

• Antimicrobial stewardship programmes are crucial for preserving the efficacy of antimicrobial agents for future generations.
• ASPs lead to improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
• Investing in ASPs is essential for combating the global threat of AMR.