How is the problem of antibiotic resistance affecting India?

In India, where antibiotics are widely accessible, overuse has accelerated the spread of "superbugs" that withstand even last-line medicines, making common infections, minor injuries, and routine surgeries potentially high-risk procedures.

What are doctors doing to address the issue of antibiotic misuse?

Doctors are following evidence-based protocols, confirming bacterial infections where possible, and reserving antibiotics for genuine medical indications. Infectious disease specialists are also leading efforts to promote rational antibiotic use and curb the rise of antimicrobial resistance.

Home / Health / Antibiotic Resistance Accelerates Globally, Urgent Action Required

Antibiotic Resistance Accelerates Globally, Urgent Action Required

Q: What is the World Health Organization's (WHO) view on antimicrobial resistance?

WHO has identified antimicrobial resistance as one of the top global health threats of the 21st century, with drug-resistant infections already causing an estimated 1.27 million deaths annually.

18 Nov

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Summary

Antibiotic resistance identified as top global health threat
Misuse of antibiotics fuels spread of "superbugs" in India
Doctors follow evidence-based protocols to curb unnecessary prescribing

As the world marks World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week, a stark reality emerges: antibiotics, once considered miracle drugs, are rapidly losing their power. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified AMR as one of the top global health threats of the 21st century, with drug-resistant infections already causing an estimated 1.27 million deaths annually.

The problem is particularly acute in India, where antibiotics are widely accessible and overuse has accelerated the spread of "superbugs" that withstand even last-line medicines. WHO warns that without responsible use, common infections, minor injuries, and routine surgeries may become high-risk procedures.

To combat this crisis, healthcare providers are implementing evidence-based protocols to ensure antibiotics are prescribed judiciously. Doctors follow a structured process, tailoring treatment to the specific infection and severity, and relying on diagnostic tests to avoid unnecessary antibiotic exposure. Infectious disease specialists are also leading efforts to promote rational antibiotic use and curb the rise of antimicrobial resistance.