What is antimicrobial resistance (AMR)?
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death.
Why is AMR a concern for India?
AMR is a significant concern for India due to its high burden of infectious diseases that require antibiotics for treatment. Overuse and misuse of these drugs in humans, animals, and agriculture contribute to the spread of resistant infections, complicating treatment and leading to higher medical costs and mortality rates.
What are the most common pathogens showing resistance in India?
In India, the pathogens with alarming resistance rates include:
• E. coli: Known for causing urinary tract infections and diarrhea, showing increased resistance to commonly used antibiotics.
• Acinetobacter: Associated with pneumonia and bloodstream infections, often reported in hospital settings with high resistance to third-line antibiotics including carbapenems.
• Klebsiella pneumoniae: Causes pneumonia and urinary tract infections; noted for its resistance to multiple antibiotics, making associated hospital-acquired infections particularly challenging to treat.
What are the most commonly prescribed antibiotics in India?
According to the Annual report of the National Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Surveillance Network:
• 71.90% of patients visiting tertiary hospitals are prescribed antibiotics.
• Among these, 47% receive one antibiotic, 35% receive two antibiotics, and 18% are on three antibiotics.
What measures are being taken to combat AMR in India?
Efforts to combat AMR in India include:
• Educational Campaigns: Raising awareness among healthcare providers and the public about the prudent use of antibiotics.
• Surveillance Programs: Monitoring antibiotic use and resistance patterns to better inform treatment protocols.
• Regulatory Measures: Enforcing regulations to control over-the-counter sales of antibiotics and improve prescription practices.
• Vaccination: Promoting the use of vaccines to reduce the need for antibiotics by preventing infections.
What steps can individuals take to help reduce AMR?
Individuals can contribute to reducing AMR by:
• Using Antibiotics Responsibly: Only using antibiotics when prescribed by a certified healthcare provider.
• Completing Prescriptions: Following the treatment course as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
• Prevention Efforts: Practicing good hygiene, getting vaccinated, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals to prevent the spread of infections.
How does AMR impact healthcare costs?
AMR increases healthcare costs due to longer duration of illness, more complex health care requirements, and the need for more expensive or second-line medications. It complicates treatments for common infections, making them prolonged and more expensive to manage.
What future studies are needed on AMR?
Future studies should focus on:
• Mapping Resistance Patterns: Understanding and documenting changes in resistance to formulate effective treatment and prevention strategies.
• Evaluating Policy Effectiveness: Assessing the impact of current policies and interventions on AMR trends.
• Developing New Treatments: Researching and developing new antimicrobials and alternative treatments like phage therapy to stay ahead of emerging resistances.
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