Causes of AMR

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is primarily caused by the overuse and misuse of antimicrobial drugs, including antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals. Factors contributing to AMR include:

1. Overprescription: Inappropriate use of antibiotics, such as prescribing them for viral infections like the common cold, can lead to resistance.

2. Incomplete Treatment: Not completing a prescribed antibiotic course allows surviving bacteria to develop resistance.

3. Incorrect Dosage: Incorrect dosages or durations of antimicrobial treatments can contribute to the development of resistance.

4. Use in Agriculture: The use of antimicrobials in livestock for growth promotion or disease prevention can lead to the development of resistant strains.

5. Poor Infection Prevention and Control: Inadequate hygiene and infection prevention practices in healthcare settings can facilitate the spread of resistant microbes.

6. Globalization of Travel and Trade: Resistant microbes can spread globally through travel and trade, making containment and control more challenging.

7. Lack of New Antibiotics: There has been a decline in the development of new antibiotics, limiting treatment options and contributing to the persistence of resistant strains.

8. Self-Medication: Inappropriate use of over-the-counter antimicrobial drugs without professional guidance contributes to resistance.

Addressing AMR requires a multifaceted approach involving proper antibiotic use, improved hygiene practices, surveillance, and the development of new antimicrobial agents.