The Lancet Infectious Diseases Commission on antimicrobial resistance: 6 years later
Ramanan Laxminarayan1, Thomas Van Boeckel2, Isabel Frost3
1Centre for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy, New Delhi, India; Princeton Environmental Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
Abstract:
In 2013, a Lancet Infectious Diseases Commission described the state of antimicrobial resistance worldwide. Since then, greater awareness of the public health ramifications of antimicrobial resistance has led to national actions and global initiatives, including a resolution at the high-level meeting of the UN General Assembly in 2016. Progress in addressing this issue has ranged from a ban on irrational drug combinations in India to commitments to ban colistin as a growth promoter in animals, improve hospital infection control, and implement better antimicrobial stewardship. Funds have been mobilised, and regulatory barriers to new antibiotic development have been relaxed. These efforts have been episodic and uneven across countries, however. Sustained funding for antimicrobial resistance and globally harmonised targets to monitor progress are still urgently needed. Except for in a few leading countries, antimicrobial resistance has not captured the sustained focus of national leaders and country-level actors, including care providers.
Insights
Antimicrobial resistance awareness has grown, leading to some national actions and global initiatives. However, sustained funding and harmonized targets are still needed for effective global progress.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global public health threat.
- Increased awareness since 2013 has spurred national and international efforts to combat AMR.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review progress made in addressing antimicrobial resistance since 2013.
- To identify persistent challenges and unmet needs in global AMR control efforts.
Main Methods:
- Review of national policies and global initiatives related to antimicrobial resistance.
- Analysis of progress in areas such as drug regulation, infection control, and antimicrobial stewardship.
Main Results:
- Some progress achieved, including bans on irrational drug combinations and colistin use as a growth promoter.
- Mobilization of funds and relaxation of regulatory barriers for new antibiotic development noted.
- Efforts remain episodic and uneven across countries, with a lack of sustained focus from national leaders.
Conclusions:
- Despite progress, sustained funding and globally harmonized targets are crucial for effective AMR containment.
- Continued engagement of national leaders and healthcare providers is essential for long-term success in combating antimicrobial resistance.
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