The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about the misuse of antibiotics, stating that it is undermining their efficacy and giving rise to resistant bacteria. According to WHO, if this trend continues, it could lead to around 10 million deaths worldwide by 2050.
WHO’s European chapter conducted a study in 14 countries, mostly in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The study revealed that antibiotics were frequently prescribed for conditions such as the common cold (24% of cases), flu-like symptoms (16%), sore throat (21%), and cough (18%).
While antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a natural phenomenon, the misuse of antimicrobials is accelerating the development and spread of superbugs, making infections more difficult to treat effectively, according to a statement by WHO.
The WHO’s European region consists of 53 countries, including several in Central Asia. The organization emphasized that all countries in the region have regulations in place to prevent the misuse of antibiotics. Enforcing these regulations would resolve most cases of antibiotic misuse, stated Robb Butler, Director of WHO Europe’s Division of Communicable Diseases.
If immediate action is not taken, resistance to antimicrobials, including antibiotics, could result in up to 10 million deaths annually by 2050, warned WHO.
One of the causes for concern highlighted by WHO was incorrect prescription practices. The survey conducted in the 14 countries revealed that a third of the approximately 8,200 people surveyed had taken antibiotics without a medical prescription. In some countries, over 40% of antibiotics were used without medical advice.
In contrast, a survey conducted in the European Union in 2022 showed that only 8% of respondents took antibiotics without a prescription.
The WHO also pointed out a lack of knowledge about antibiotics among people, which leads to taking antibiotics for the wrong reasons without realizing it.
Robb Butler commented on the need for education and awareness regarding the proper use of antibiotics, emphasizing that this research clearly demonstrates the importance of addressing this issue.
By raising awareness about the consequences of antibiotic misuse, implementing and enforcing regulations, and educating individuals about the appropriate use of antibiotics, we can minimize the development of antimicrobial resistance and ensure that these life-saving drugs remain effective.
