Misuse of antibiotics is increasing the risk; more than 40 million deaths could occur by 2050

News Topical, Digital Desk : Medical science has made extraordinary progress in recent decades. Antimicrobial drugs like antibiotics have made it much easier to treat diseases once considered incurable. But today, these same drugs are becoming ineffective due to a phenomenon known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR). 

This has emerged as a serious challenge that is beginning to undo all the medical advances. Alarmingly, a Lancet study claims that antimicrobial resistance could cause more than 40 million deaths by 2050. Therefore, it is essential to use antibiotics with extreme caution.

What is AMR and why is it deadly?

When germs like bacteria, viruses, or fungi adapt to fight the effects of drugs, it's called antimicrobial resistance. Overuse and unnecessary medication can lead to the emergence of superbugs . 

But don't make the mistake of thinking this is a future problem. According to an ICMR report, more than 1.2 million deaths worldwide each year are due to antimicrobial resistance. This situation is so dire that, according to a World Health Organization report, drugs are now less effective against serious diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. This is making these diseases increasingly difficult to treat. 

Who is most at risk?

AMR can affect any age group, but people with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable. These include cancer patients, organ transplant recipients, HIV-infected individuals, and those with diabetes or kidney disease . Additionally, long hospital stays, overcrowding, contaminated food, and poor hand hygiene also increase the risk

Side effects and increasing complications

When standard medications become ineffective, second- and third-line treatments are needed. These treatments are not only expensive but can also cause serious side effects, such as organ damage. We rely heavily on antibiotics to prevent infections during cancer chemotherapy, cesareans, and major surgeries. If they lose their effectiveness, safe surgery would become impossible.

What to do for protection?

• Medical advice is essential: Take antibiotics only after consulting a doctor. Do not use them for colds or viral fevers.
• Healthy habits – You can prevent the spread of germs by practicing cleanliness and hygiene.
• Share travel history – If you have come for treatment from outside the country, then definitely tell your doctor because AMR is not just an Indian problem, but a global problem.
• Monitor side effects: If you experience diarrhea three or four times during the medication, inform your doctor immediately.

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