Effects of laboratory capabilities on combating antimicrobial resistance, 2013-2016: A static model panel data...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Microbiology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health threat.
• International organizations like the WHO and EU are implementing strategies to combat AMR.
• Laboratory capacity building is a key component of these global strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between laboratory capabilities and antimicrobial resistance.
• To analyze this relationship from a macro-level perspective.

Main Methods:

• Utilized annual national data from 2013-2016.
• Employed data from the EU Laboratory Capability Monitoring System and Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Europe.
• Applied conventional static panel data analysis.

Main Results:

• Enhanced laboratory capability for antimicrobial drug resistance characterization and monitoring (LC8) was associated with reduced resistance rates in *Escherichia coli* (Y5, Y4) and *Klebsiella pneumoniae* (Y8).
• Adherence to diagnostic testing guidelines (LC2) correlated with increased resistance rates in *Klebsiella pneumoniae* to specific antibiotic classes (Y6, Y7, Y9).

Conclusions:

• Laboratory-based antimicrobial drug resistance characterization and monitoring contribute to mitigating AMR.
• The mechanisms by which certain laboratory capabilities may have ineffective or negative impacts on AMR require further research.