Gender and Antimicrobial Resistance: What Can We Learn From Applying a Gendered Lens to Data Analysis Using a...

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Sociology

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health challenge, exacerbated by cross-sectoral behaviors and policy gaps.
• AMR is prevalent in areas with limited sanitation, healthcare access, and health education.
• Understanding community-level AMR drivers and developing local solutions remains crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore community perspectives on the drivers of antibiotic misuse and overuse.
• To investigate the influence of gender on behaviors contributing to AMR.
• To highlight the importance of a gendered perspective in AMR research and interventions.

Main Methods:

• A participatory video study was conducted in two communities in Nepal.
• Data collection focused on understanding community members' views on antibiotic use.
• Analysis examined the role of gender in AMR-related behaviors.

Main Results:

• Gender was found to significantly impact various AMR-driving behaviors within the studied communities.
• Community perspectives revealed nuanced gendered influences on antibiotic procurement and usage.
• The study underscores the need to integrate gender considerations into AMR strategies.

Conclusions:

• Gender is a critical, yet often overlooked, factor in the global AMR crisis.
• Addressing AMR requires understanding and incorporating gendered dynamics in community-level interventions.
• Future AMR research must adopt a gender-sensitive approach to develop effective and equitable solutions.