Antimicrobial resistance continues to pose a significant challenge to the Indian healthcare system: Experts

New Delhi: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses an immediate and widespread threat to global public health, primarily fueled by the indiscriminate use of antimicrobials in human, animal, and plant health domains.

Doctors at Amrita Hospital Kochi expressed apprehension about the persistent and significant impact of antimicrobial resistance on the healthcare landscape in India. To effectively address this global issue, they recommended a strategic approach aimed at reducing the reliance on and usage of antimicrobial drugs, thereby mitigating the impact of AMR.

According to WHO (World Health Organization) findings, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) causes an estimated 5 million deaths every year globally, with projections suggesting a rise to 10 million by 2050. This escalation is due to the spread of resistant organisms, leading to ineffective treatment of infections and increased mortality. South Asia, notably India, significantly contributes to global AMR due to extensive antibiotic use, both in healthcare and agriculture.

Dr. Ranga Reddy, President, Infection Control Academy of India said, “AMR poses a threat to various aspects of life, undermining the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, especially in regions with inadequate sanitation. Sectors like agriculture and poultry significantly contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Recognizing persistent or worsening infections despite antibiotic treatment is crucial, as a lack of response may indicate AMR. Vigilance and appropriate treatment are essential, considering risk factors such as excessive antibiotic use, hospitalization, and chronic conditions. Treatment options are limited and require tailored antibiotic therapy based on susceptibility testing. The concept of healthy aging can be adopted by staying healthy and by vaccinating against the communicable diseases.”

In a global landscape with heightened medical complexities, including transplants and immunosuppressive therapies which expose patients to increased infection risks, the looming threat of AMR amplifies the urgency with substantial economic repercussions and potential strain on healthcare systems.

Dr. Dipu TS, Associate Professor, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, said, “Hospitals should implement accurate antibiotic prescribing, establish antimicrobial stewardship programs, to improve the appropriateness of the prescriptions and need to focus on infection control practices to prevent the spread of infections from one person to other.  Individuals can safeguard against AMR by following prescribed antibiotic courses, avoiding self-medication, and maintaining good hygiene practices.”

“Healthcare professionals play a key role by educating patients on antibiotic use, implementing stewardship programs, and advocating for policies supporting AMR control. Key practices include rational antibiotic prescribing, infection control measures, public education on antibiotic use, and improving sanitation and hygiene. Strengthening surveillance systems, promoting antibiotic stewardship, investing in new antibiotic development, and fostering global collaboration are essential strategies, highlighting the necessity of centralized policies to curb antibiotic misuse and abuse across sectors,” said Dr. R. Krishna Kumar, HoD, Pediatric Cardiology, Amrita Hospital, Kochi.

Over-the-counter accessibility and limited awareness compound the problem. India’s challenges, including resource scarcity and inadequate surveillance, intensify the battle against AMR. This issue pervades although all demographics, is particularly more common among infants, the elderly, and those with co-morbidities.

“The misuse of antibiotics leads to bacterial resistance, while the pharmaceutical industry’s lack of focus on new antibiotics complicates the problem. In 2021, India alone reported 100,000 cases of antibiotic-resistant organisms. These cases are spanned across various bacterial infections, indicating widespread resistance. It is crucial to find a delicate balance in antibiotic dosages, acknowledging that overuse contributes to resistance. As we navigate these challenges, collective global efforts, innovative research, and responsible antibiotic stewardship are our best tools in preserving the efficacy of antibiotics and safeguarding the health of present and future generations,” added Dr. Bipin Kumar G. Nair, Dean & HoS, School of Biotechnology, Amritapuri.

Amrita School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham recently organized a three-day international colloquium, Amrita Legion of Antimicrobial Resistance Management (ALARM) 2023. In alignment with the World Health Organization’s World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, the event addressed the urgency of creating awareness and collaborative efforts to combat this growing medical challenge. ALARM 2023 provided a dynamic platform that transcended traditional conference settings. Multidisciplinary panels engaged experts from various fields, fostering in-depth discussions on the social, economic, and health implications of AMR. Specialized policy roundtables offered a space for policymakers to share strategies, integrating AMR considerations into broader health and economic policies.