MISUSE of antibiotics is contributing to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance worldwide. Many individuals, especially in developing and underdeveloped countries, take medications without following proper prescriptions, which diminishes the effectiveness of these drugs. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently highlighted this issue, noting that antibiotic resistance is becoming a daily concern. On 3 September, the World Health Organization issued new guidelines on antibiotic resistance ahead of a global meeting scheduled for 26 September to address this critical health issue.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, and parasites adapt to drugs that are meant to kill them, rendering these medications ineffective. This often happens when people take antibiotics without proper medical guidance, using them to treat conditions that may not even require them. As a result, these microbes evolve, making the drugs less potent over time. WHO has been warning about this problem for years, as antibiotic misuse continues to rise, particularly in areas where access to medical education is limited.
In some countries, the situation is exacerbated by practices in animal farming. Antibiotics are commonly added to animal feed to promote growth and increase profits. However, this practice contributes to the development of resistant bacteria, which can be transferred to humans through the consumption of meat. World Health Organization recognized this as a significant issue during the 2019 World Public Health Conference, identifying it as one of the top 10 public health challenges globally.
The impact of antibiotic resistance is staggering. According to the medical journal Lancet, over 1.2 million people worldwide died due to antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the past two years. This number surpasses the annual death toll from diseases like malaria and AIDS. While antibiotic resistance is particularly problematic in poorer nations, it is a global issue that threatens public health.
Medical experts have repeatedly warned about the difficulty of treating infections caused by resistant bacteria. The economic and social costs are significant, as prolonged illnesses strain healthcare systems and reduce productivity. As such, authorities need to raise public awareness to follow physician’s directives to overcome the challenges of antibiotic drug resilience.
To combat this, individuals, particularly in developing nations, must strictly adhere to medical advice. It is crucial to avoid self-medication and purchasing antibiotics from unregulated sources. By following physicians’ directives, people can reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance and protect their health and that of their communities.
