Antibiotic resistance (AMR) is a global health crisis that impacts both healthcare and business. As bacteria develop resistance to commonly used antibiotics, we risk losing the ability to treat routine infections, leading to increased costs and disruption across industries. Here are five key facts about AMR—and five ways you can help combat it.
5 Key Facts About Antibiotic Resistance
1. Antibiotic resistance is a growing threat.
Antibiotic resistance leads to over 1.2 million deaths each year, making once-treatable infections difficult or impossible to cure. Without effective solutions, routine medical procedures and common infections could become life-threatening, jeopardising global healthcare and business operations.
2. Overuse of antibiotics is the main driver.
Over-prescription in healthcare and excessive use in agriculture are the biggest contributors to antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics are often used unnecessarily, particularly in animal farming, accelerating the spread of resistant bacteria.
3. The economic cost of AMR is rising.
Antibiotic resistance increases healthcare costs, extends hospital stays, and disrupts supply chains, especially in food production. As infections become harder to treat, businesses face higher operational and healthcare expenses.
4. New antibiotics are scarce.
The development of new antibiotics has slowed, with fewer drugs entering the market. As resistance grows, existing antibiotics become less effective, leaving healthcare providers with fewer treatment options for drug-resistant infections.
5. AMR is a global problem requiring immediate action.
Antibiotic resistance affects human health, agriculture, and economies worldwide. From healthcare to food production, every industry must act to reduce antibiotic misuse and explore sustainable alternatives to protect future generations.
5 Things You Can Do to Combat Antibiotic Resistance
1. Control antibiotic use in your supply chains.
Limit the use of antibiotics to cases where they are medically necessary. Implement strict protocols in both healthcare and agriculture to ensure antibiotics are used responsibly and sustainably.
2. Invest in research for alternative treatments.
Support innovation in antibiotic alternatives, such as antimicrobial peptides, probiotics, and plant-based therapies. Encouraging research in these areas can reduce reliance on traditional antibiotics and help address the growing resistance problem.
3. Advocate for stronger regulations.
Encourage global regulatory changes to limit the misuse of antibiotics, particularly in industrial farming. Advocate for transparency and compliance in your organisation and supply chain to ensure responsible antibiotic use.
4. Promote infection prevention.
Implement strict hygiene practices, vaccination programmes, and infection control measures across your operations. By preventing infections, you reduce the need for antibiotics, slowing the spread of resistance.
5. Explore sustainable alternatives to antibiotics.
Consider natural, non-antibiotic treatments for skincare, healthcare, and animal health. Sustainable alternatives, like those developed by Epitheal, can effectively treat inflammation and infections without contributing to antibiotic overuse, making them a key part of the solution.
About Epitheal
Epitheal is a leader in sustainable healthcare, providing natural alternatives to antibiotics and steroids for both human and veterinary skincare. As antibiotic resistance threatens global health, Epitheal’s innovative treatments harness the power of natural ingredients to address inflammation and infection without adding to the overuse of antibiotics. By focusing on safe, effective, and eco-friendly solutions, Epitheal is at the forefront of promoting sustainable healthcare practices that protect the efficacy of antibiotics for future generations.
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