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Antimicrobial Resistance: A Looming Threat to Modern Medicine

25 0
20.03.2025

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most pressing global health challenges of our time. It occurs when microbes such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs, rendering treatments ineffective. This phenomenon is not just a theoretical threat but a reality that is already impacting healthcare systems worldwide. Infections that were once easily treatable, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and urinary tract infections, are becoming harder to manage due to the rise of resistant strains. The World Health Organization (WHO) has labeled AMR as a silent pandemic, warning that it could lead to 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if no urgent action is taken. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach, with public awareness playing a central role in preventing the spread of resistance and preserving the effectiveness of existing treatments.

The growing threat of AMR is driven by several factors, many of which are rooted in human behavior and practices. One of the primary contributors is the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in human medicine. Patients often demand antibiotics for viral infections, such as the common cold, despite these drugs being ineffective against viruses. Additionally, many individuals fail to complete their prescribed antibiotic courses, allowing surviving microbes to develop resistance. Self-medication, particularly in regions where antibiotics are available over the counter, exacerbates the problem. Beyond human medicine, the widespread use of antibiotics in........

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