What Is AMR and Why It Matters
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) happens when bacteria and other microbes evolve to resist antibiotics.
It makes common infections harder to treat and can lead to death.
In 2019, AMR caused around 2.97 lakh deaths in India.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared AMR a top 10 global health threat.
Causes and Challenges
Overuse and misuse of antibiotics in humans, animals, and farming accelerate resistance.
Antibiotics are often sold in India without prescriptions, worsening the problem.
Diagnostic delays, poor hospital equipment, and lack of accountability worsen patient outcomes.
Self-medication and public demand for antibiotics, even for viral illnesses, add to the issue.
Healthcare systems are often understaffed, making proper antibiotic use harder.
Hope Through Innovation and Regulation
India developed Nafithromycin, its first locally-made antibiotic in 30 years, to treat bacterial pneumonia.
The launch of new antibiotics is slow because big pharma companies see low profit.
Small Indian companies like Wockhardt are filling the gap despite financial challenges.
Government actions include a National Action Plan, awareness campaigns, and bans on certain antibiotic uses in poultry.
What Needs to Be Done
Better education for the public and health professionals about correct antibiotic use.
Stronger regulation to stop over-the-counter sales and ensure proper prescription practices.
Improved diagnostics and hospital care to treat infections more effectively.
Government must support antibiotic research and ensure new drugs are affordable and accessible.
Experts stress that fighting AMR is a shared responsibility across sectors and society.
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