Antimicrobial Resistance termed a 'health crisis'
Acinetobacter baumannii — a bacterium associated with hospital-acquired infections that can develop resistance to antibiotics. PHOTO: Eye Of Science/Science Photo Library
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a ticking time bomb, responsible for over one million deaths worldwide annually and approximately 60,000 deaths in Pakistan per year, making it a serious public health crisis.
Leading experts warned at a seminar on microbial diseases and antibiotic resistance. The seminar was organised by the Department of Microbiology at Federal Urdu University of Arts Science Arts and Technology.
The event was led by microbiologist Professor Sikander Sherwani, the chief organiser of the seminar on Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases.
The seminar was attended by students and experts from various institutions associated with the field of microbiology.
Renowned microbiologists from different universities and hospitals provided valuable insights on the topic. Professor Dr. Zahid, Dean of Science at Federal Urdu University, praised Professor Sikander Sherwani's continuous efforts and emphasised that such programs help students enhance their academic performance and contribute to the university's reputation. He highlighted that the department remains actively engaged in scientific and research-based initiatives.
Addressing the global and national impact of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Professor Sikander Sherwani warned that AMR is a ticking time bomb, responsible for over one million deaths worldwide annually. He pointed out that in Pakistan, AMR directly causes approximately 59,200 deaths per year, making it a serious public health crisis.
Dr Saima Faraz, Chairperson of the Department, commended Professor Sherwani for organizing such an important event. She noted that these programs help students learn modern techniques, enhance their knowledge, and strengthen their understanding of their field.
Professor Dr Saeed of Dow University of Health Sciences stressed the importance of the proper use of antibiotics in combating infections and protecting public health. He cautioned that the overuse of antibiotics can be harmful and noted that Pakistan is among the top 10 countries facing antibiotic resistance. Alarmingly, 70-80% of bacterial infections in Pakistan have developed resistance to commonly used antibiotics. He emphasised the need for increased awareness and scientific research to tackle these challenges, warning that without intervention, AMR-related deaths in Pakistan could rise to 100,000 annually by 2050.
Dr Owais Khan from Liaquat National University, Department of Infectious Diseases provided insights into the role of proper hygiene and medical interventions in controlling epidemics.
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