Latest news with #AMR-related
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Antimicrobial resistant superbugs could kill millions, cost $2 trillion yearly by 2050: Report
Representative AI-generated image Antimicrobial-resistant superbugs could lead to substantial global mortality and economic losses of approximately $2tn annually by 2050, according to a study, quoted by the Guardian. Analysis from a UK government-sponsored research reveals that rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) could result in yearly global GDP losses of $1.7 trillion over the next 25 years without decisive intervention. The Center for Global Development's research indicates severe economic impact on the US, UK and EU economies. Recent reductions in aid funding appear counterproductive, particularly as the UK government has eliminated Fleming fund support for AMR prevention in developing nations. Similarly, the US has confirmed $9 billion in foreign aid reductions, with European nations following suit. Anthony McDonnell, who led the research at the Center for Global Development, explained that initial projections were based on historical resistance trends. He noted that significant aid reductions by the US (80%), UK (from 0.5% to 0.3% of GNI), France, and Germany could accelerate resistance rates to worst-case scenarios. He emphasised that no country, regardless of their AMR control success, should be complacent. Without protecting AMR programmes from funding cuts, global resistance rates could escalate to match severely affected nations, resulting in increased mortality worldwide and substantial economic consequences. The study, covering 122 countries, projects annual GDP losses by 2050 could reach $722 billion in China, $295.7 billion in the US, $187 billion in the EU, $65.7 billion in Japan, and $58.6 billion in the UK under pessimistic scenarios. The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation forecasts a 60% increase in AMR-related deaths by 2050, with annual mortality reaching 1.34 million in the US and 184,000 in the UK. Drug-resistant infections are expected to rise significantly. Antibiotic-resistant infections double treatment costs due to increased hospitalisations, extended stays, expensive alternative treatments, and complex care requirements. The research estimates global AMR treatment costs could rise by $176bn annually, with UK costs increasing from $900m to $3.7bn and US costs from $15.5bn to $57bn. The study indicates workforce reductions of 0.8% in the UK, 0.6% in the EU, and 0.4% in the US due to resistant infections. However, increased investment in addressing superbugs could boost annual economic growth by $156.2bn in the US and $12bn in the UK by 2050. Dr Mohsen Naghavi from IHME warned that without immediate action, current medicines might become ineffective, potentially making simple infections lethal, according to The Guardian. This requires governmental policy changes, new drug development, and public education about antibiotics' ineffectiveness against viruses. A UK government representative highlighted their 10-year health strategy addressing AMR, citing progress in reducing antibiotic use in meat production and developing new treatment incentives whilst maintaining international cooperation.
United News of India
17-06-2025
- Health
- United News of India
Study reveals unequal gender impact of ‘Superbugs' across the globe
New Delhi, June 17 (UNI) As the world grapples with the growing health threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a first-of-its kind study has revealed that even Superbugs don't affect everyone equally-- antimicrobial resistance shows gender disparities too. AMR occurs when microorganisms (Superbugs) like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to become less susceptible or completely resistant to antimicrobial medicines, including antibiotics, anti-virals, anti-fungals, and anti-parasitics. Led by Professor Leo Lahti at the University of Turku, the study analysed the DNA of over 14,000 gut metagenomes from 32 countries and it found that women in high-income countries carry, on average, 9% more antibiotic resistance genes than men, suggesting they may be more frequently exposed to antibiotics or resistant bacteria. In contrast, men in low- and middle-income nations showed higher resistance gene loads, though these differences were not statistically significant when factors like age and living conditions were accounted for. The study titled 'Gender Differences in Global Antimicrobial Resistance', published in the latest issue of npj Biofilms and Microbiomes also found that women in wealthier nations had a broader diversity of resistance genes, possibly due to differences in gut microbiota, and that age and country of residence were major factors in resistance levels. The highest resistance was noted in infants and the elderly, while poor sanitation and high antibiotic use in low-income countries also contributed to higher resistance levels. These findings highlight the intricate interaction of gender, socio-economic status, geography, and age in the spread of antibiotic resistance. With AMR already responsible for over 1.3 million deaths annually, researchers argue that understanding these gender differences is crucial for developing equitable and effective healthcare strategies to combat this escalating threat. The study observation is especially critical for India, as it bears the world's highest burden of antibiotic-resistant TB. In 2019 alone, nearly 300,000 people in the country died from AMR-related infections, as per various reports. "By recognising these disparities, we can tailor interventions that address the specific needs of different populations and help reduce health inequalities related to antibiotic resistance," said Katariina Parnanen, one of the study's lead researchers. As per various reports, AMR is predicted to contribute to 39 million deaths by 2050. UNI AJ SSP
Hans India
15-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Coordinated action vital to combat antimicrobial resistance: Minister
Bengaluru: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is emerging as a silent pandemic globally, prompting urgent calls for a coordinated response, Karnataka's Minister for Science and Technology, N. S. Boseraju, said on Tuesday. Speaking at the inauguration of a three-day national conference titled 'Antimicrobial Resistance: Mitigation Strategies and Alternatives', organised by the Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA), Boseraju highlighted the World Health Organisation's concerns over the growing threat of AMR and stressed the importance of collective scientific and policy-driven efforts. 'In India, the India AMR Innovation Hub is leading the charge by encouraging researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to develop context-specific solutions through collaboration,' the minister said. 'Both the central and state governments have taken significant steps to tackle AMR through awareness campaigns, monitoring of antibiotic usage, regulating drug sales, and promoting appropriate use in both humans and animals.' He added that Karnataka remains at the forefront of AMR-related research, with several leading institutions in Bengaluru developing novel strategies to counter antimicrobial resistance. 'Fighting AMR is not only a scientific challenge but also a moral responsibility,' Boseraju remarked. 'It is through shared knowledge and determined effort that we can safeguard public health, ensure food security, and promote sustainable development.' The conference brought together prominent experts, including Dr. Raghavendra Bhatta, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR); Dr. Karuna Saghar, former senior official at the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation and Advisor to Nitte University; Dr. C. N. Ravishankar, former Vice Chancellor of the Central Institute of Fisheries Education; and Prof. Indrani Karuna Saghar, Director at Nitte University. KSTA CEO Dr. A. M. Ramesh and senior scientist Dr. R. Anand also participated. A tribute was paid to the late Padma Shri awardee and renowned scientist Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan during the event.
Hans India
14-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Coordinated Action Vital to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance: Karnataka Minister N. S. Boseraju
Bengaluru: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is emerging as a silent pandemic globally, prompting urgent calls for a coordinated response, Karnataka's Minister for Science and Technology, N. S. Boseraju, said on Tuesday. Speaking at the inauguration of a three-day national conference titled "Antimicrobial Resistance: Mitigation Strategies and Alternatives", organised by the Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA), Boseraju highlighted the World Health Organization's concerns over the growing threat of AMR and stressed the importance of collective scientific and policy-driven efforts. 'In India, the India AMR Innovation Hub is leading the charge by encouraging researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to develop context-specific solutions through collaboration,' the minister said. 'Both the central and state governments have taken significant steps to tackle AMR through awareness campaigns, monitoring of antibiotic usage, regulating drug sales, and promoting appropriate use in both humans and animals.' He added that Karnataka remains at the forefront of AMR-related research, with several leading institutions in Bengaluru developing novel strategies to counter antimicrobial resistance. 'Fighting AMR is not only a scientific challenge but also a moral responsibility,' Boseraju remarked. 'It is through shared knowledge and determined effort that we can safeguard public health, ensure food security, and promote sustainable development.' The conference brought together prominent experts including Dr. Raghavendra Bhatta, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR); Dr. Karuna Saghar, former senior official at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and Advisor to Nitte University; Dr. C. N. Ravishankar, former Vice Chancellor of the Central Institute of Fisheries Education; and Prof. Indrani Karuna Saghar, Director at Nitte University. KSTA CEO Dr. A. M. Ramesh and senior scientist Dr. R. Anand also participated. A tribute was paid to the late Padma Shri awardee and renowned scientist Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan during the event.
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
New report calls for collective action to fight ‘silent pandemic' of Asia's growing antimicrobial resistance
In Asia Pacific, related costs are projected to reach up to US$700 billion by 2050. However, timely investment could generate between US$10 billion and US$15 billion in annual healthcare savings. A new report by Temasek Trust initiatives calls for more funding to tackle antimicrobial resistance in Asia (AMR), which could become the leading cause of death by 2050. The report, released May 5, outlines four key areas where funders can drive meaningful impact - from education and prevention to surveillance and treatment. "Antimicrobial resistance is on track to become the deadliest health threat facing humanity. But with urgent action and targeted finance, over 100 million deaths could be prevented by 2050," reads the report by the Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP) and the World Economic Forum's GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative, supported by the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA). Rising temperatures and extreme weather events are accelerating bacterial growth and disease transmission, while disrupting healthcare and immunisation services, say the report's authors. Climate-related pressures are also driving the increased use of antimicrobials in livestock and crops, contaminating freshwater sources and fuelling drug resistance, they add. In Asia Pacific, AMR-related costs are projected to reach up to US$700 billion by 2050, accounting for up to 1% of the region's GDP. However, timely investment in AMR solutions could generate between US$10 billion and US$15 billion in annual healthcare savings, and cut the region's annual socioeconomic costs by up to US$40 billion within the next decade, claim the authors. The 52-page report, titled "Targeted Action and Financing the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance in Asia", draws on insights from 15 case studies and examples of funding mechanisms, along with contributions from 26 organisations. New therapeutics, such as drugs and vaccines, can take 10 to 15 years to develop and launch to market. Hence, the authors call for immediate and practical interventions to curb resistance today and pave the way for long-term solutions. The report proposes interventions in four areas: Educate: Improving knowledge and behaviour by strengthening awareness of AMR among clinicians, patients and farmers; emphasising the importance of avoiding the overuse or abuse of antimicrobials; as well as introducing strategies to prevent infections in the first place. Prevent: Strengthening health systems and services by boosting preventive measures such as improving diagnostic capabilities and investing in better water, sanitation and hygiene measures. Monitor: Enhancing regional surveillance, and data collection and sharing between actors, especially in lower-income countries. Treat: Investing in research and development for new antimicrobials, and increasing access to novel and essential medicines. Private funders, impact investors and philanthropists have a vital role to play in closing critical gaps, say the authors, particularly in late-stage drug development, where funding is scarce. By pooling resources, funders can help bring life-saving treatments to market, strengthen the antibiotic pipeline, and build more sustainable and widespread access to essential medicines. PAA CEO Shaun Seow says the report is a catalyst for deeper involvement from all sectors - philanthropic, public and private. "It highlights the scale of the AMR threat and the opportunity for collective action. We are encouraged by the ongoing work of organisations - including PAA members like the Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust and Novo Nordisk Foundation - in driving AMR research and greater access to affordable solutions. Now is the time for more partners to come together, pool resources and support high-impact solutions that safeguard health and resilience across Asia and beyond." Infographic: CIIP, GAEA, PAA See Also: Click here to stay updated with the Latest Business & Investment News in Singapore 'Green revolution' needed to solve issues like food systems and nutrition, says President Tharman Trump administration will 'come around' on importance of partnerships: Bill Gates WEF, GenZero launch Green Fuel Forward initiative to scale sustainable aviation fuel demand in APAC Read more stories about where the money flows, and analysis of the biggest market stories from Singapore and around the World Get in-depth insights from our expert contributors, and dive into financial and economic trends Follow the market issue situation with our daily updates Or want more Lifestyle and Passion stories? Click here
