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Antibiotic resistance: a geopolitical issue
J Carlet1, C Pulcini, L J V Piddock
1World Alliance Against Antimicrobial Resistance (WAAAR), Paris, France.
Abstract:
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), associated with a lack of new antibiotics, is a major threat. Some countries have been able to contain resistance, but in most countries the numbers of antibiotic-resistant bacteria continue to increase, along with antibiotic consumption by humans and animals. AMR is a global issue, and concerns all decision-makers worldwide. Some initiatives have been undertaken in the last 15 years, in particular by the WHO, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the CDC, but those initiatives were partial and poorly implemented, without coordination. Very recently, some important initiatives have been implemented by the WHO. Since 2009, a US and European joint task force, the Trans-Atlantic Task Force on Antibiotic Resistance, has been working on common recommendations. At a national level, some important initiatives have been implemented, in particular in European countries and in the USA. The Chennai declaration, in India, is also a good example of a multidisciplinary and national initiative that was highly political. Finally, several non-governmental non-profit organizations are also very active, and have helped to raise awareness about the problem of AMR. In the future, this global issue will need political involvement and strong cooperation between countries and between international agencies.
Insights
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global threat due to increased antibiotic consumption and a lack of new drugs. Coordinated international efforts are crucial to combat this challenge effectively.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health threat, exacerbated by the declining development of new antibiotics.
- Rising antibiotic consumption in humans and animals worldwide fuels the increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
- Existing containment initiatives have often been fragmented and poorly coordinated, necessitating more robust strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the escalating global crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- To review past and recent initiatives aimed at combating AMR.
- To emphasize the need for enhanced international cooperation and political commitment.
Main Methods:
- Review of global trends in antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic consumption.
- Analysis of past and present international and national initiatives to address AMR.
- Examination of the role of various organizations, including WHO, CDC, and non-governmental organizations.
Main Results:
- AMR continues to increase in most countries despite some containment successes.
- Numerous initiatives have been launched by international bodies, national governments, and NGOs, but coordination has been lacking.
- Recent efforts show increased focus, including joint task forces and national declarations.
Conclusions:
- Addressing the global threat of antimicrobial resistance requires strong political will and enhanced cooperation among nations and international agencies.
- Past initiatives, while valuable, were insufficient due to poor implementation and lack of coordination.
- Future strategies must prioritize coordinated, multidisciplinary, and politically supported actions to effectively manage AMR.
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