A Survey Based Study on Antimicrobial Resistance as a Global Public Health Threat

Abstract

Antibiotics have been one of the most significant medical breakthroughs of the 20th century, saving millions of lives. However, widespread misuse and overuse have led to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), where microbes evolve to withstand these drugs. The discovery of penicillin revolutionized treatment, but today, resistant infections pose a major global health threat. This review highlights the public health impact of AMR, its key drivers (such as over prescription and misuse), and current strategies to combat it. The One Health approach integrating human, animal, and environmental health is emphasized as a crucial framework for controlling resistance. Strategies include antimicrobial stewardship, improved surveillance, and increasing public awareness. A major concern is the lack of new antibiotics being developed, which contrasts sharply with the growing demand due to resistant infections. As a result, treatment options are becoming limited, leading to higher illness rates, deaths, and financial burdens. The article also discusses alternative therapies that could reduce reliance on traditional antibiotics. Overall, it provides a comprehensive overview of AMR and outlines potential strategies and research directions to address this urgent global issue.

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