Global Impact of AMR:
- AMR represents a significant global crisis, with the incidence of drug-resistant infections rapidly increasing.
- Infection-related mortality rates are projected to surpass 10 million annually by 2050, according to O’Neill J.’s 2016 report for the Government of the United Kingdom.
Current Statistics:
- The CDC-US highlights a worrying rise in AMR prevalence, with 2.8 million Americans affected yearly, leading to 35,000 deaths.
- Europe faces a similar challenge, with an estimated 33,000 deaths annually from drug-resistant infections, over half of which are acquired in healthcare settings.
Comparative Mortality Rates:
BY 2050, AMR IS EXPECTED TO CAUSE MORE DEATHS ANNUALLY THAN CANCER, UNDERSCORING THE SEVERITY OF THE CRISIS.
Financial Burden:
- AMR-related expenses in the United States, Europe, and Australia are estimated at around $USD 3.5 billion each year.
- The global cost of AMR by 2050 could exceed USD $100 trillion, highlighting the economic impact of this health threat.
Disproportionate Impact on Lower-Income Countries:
- Low and middle-income countries face higher risks of surgical site infections (SSIs) and postoperative mortality compared to high-income nations.
Prophylactic Antibiotics: Best Practices:
- Timing is crucial for the initiation of prophylactic antibiotics—ideally within one hour before surgery, or two hours for vancomycin or fluoroquinolones.
- The choice of prophylactic antibiotics must be tailored to the specific surgical procedure.
- Prophylactic antibiotics should be discontinued within 24 hours post-surgery, or 48 hours for cardiothoracic operations, to minimize the risk of developing AMR.
- Generally, a single dose is sufficient, with additional doses recommended for prolonged procedures or significant blood loss.
- Intravenous administration is preferred, with evidence supporting both bolus and continuous infusion methods for optimal outcomes.
This concise overview underscores the urgency of addressing AMR through informed practices and global health initiatives. As a seasoned general surgeon, Dr. Mandal advocates for strategic antibiotic use and the adoption of best practices to mitigate the AMR crisis effectively.