A new global analysis predicts that superbugs will kill more than 39 million people worldwide by 2050, with older individuals particularly at risk. The study, published in the Lancet and conducted by the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (Gram) Project, is the first of its kind to analyze trends in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) over time.
The research found that deaths associated with drug resistance in very young children are decreasing due to advancements in vaccination and hygiene. However, the opposite trend is seen in older individuals, with a forecasted increase in AMR-related deaths to 1.91 million annually by 2050.
The study highlights the urgent need for better prevention of infections, improved access to healthcare, and the development of new antibiotics to combat the growing threat of AMR. Global leaders are set to discuss antimicrobial resistance at the upcoming UN general assembly, with hopes of implementing measures to reduce AMR deaths by 10% by 2030.
Despite a significant decline in AMR deaths among children under 5, deaths among older age groups are on the rise, with AMR fatalities among the over-70s expected to increase by 146% by 2050. Older individuals are more vulnerable to infection due to age-related factors such as chronic diseases and a weakened immune system.
The study also projects that South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, as well as areas in southern and eastern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, will see the highest number of future AMR-related deaths. These regions have already experienced significant growth in AMR and could benefit the most from improved infection care and access to antibiotics.
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