The harms of excessive use of antibiotics

Excessive antibiotic consumption is posing a dire threat to public health, warned the European branch of the World Health Organization (WHO). The misuse of antibiotics is contributing to antimicrobial resistance, a problem that is projected to result in 10 million deaths worldwide by 2050. 

The WHO European region, encompassing 53 countries including those in Central Asia, has expressed concerns about the rapid development and spread of drug-resistant bacteria due to the misuse of antimicrobials.

Rob Butler, the head of the infectious diseases division, emphasized that implementing existing regulations aimed at preventing the misuse of antibiotics could address most of the associated problems. However, a worrying trend was revealed in a study conducted in 14 countries within Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

The study showed that incorrect prescriptions were a major issue, with antibiotics often being prescribed for common viral infections such as colds, influenza, and throat diseases. These conditions do not respond to antibiotics, rendering their use ineffective.

Furthermore, the study indicated that approximately one-third of the surveyed population, totaling 8200 individuals, consumed antibiotics without a prescription.

In some countries, the number rose to over 40%, a significantly higher proportion than in the European Union. This highlights the urgent need for education and awareness campaigns regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics.

The misuse of antibiotics also exacerbates inequality, disproportionately affecting the least educated and lowest-income populations. Butler highlighted that poor practices, such as not completing a prescribed course of antibiotics or sharing medicine with others, may be rooted in social and cultural beliefs.

To address this issue, WHO stresses the importance of promoting education and raising awareness about responsible antibiotic use.

The consequences of antibiotic resistance cannot be ignored. The WHO warns that if immediate action is not taken, antimicrobial resistance could lead to the deaths of 10 million people annually by 2050.

To combat this threat, governments, healthcare professionals, and individuals must prioritize the appropriate use of antibiotics and work collectively to preserve their efficacy.