Latest news with #AntimicrobialResistance
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.
Zawya
05-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
New Report Calls for Collective Action to Combat Asia's Growing Antimicrobial Resistance Threat
The Centre for Impact Investing and Practices and the World Economic Forum's GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative, supported by the Philanthropy Asia Alliance, have released a study urging cross-sector investment to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Asia. AMR could cost Asia up to US$700 billion by 2050 and surpass cancer as the world's leading cause of death. Report outlines four high-impact intervention areas – from education and prevention to surveillance and treatment – to guide funders and partners. SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 5 May 2025 - 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), today launched the report — Targeted Action and Financing the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance in Asia. The report underscores the urgent threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Asia and outlines four key areas where cross-sector funders can drive meaningful impact. It draws on insights from 15 case studies and examples of funding mechanisms, and contributions from 26 organisations, including international organisations, corporations, philanthropic funders, public institutions, and solution providers. Often called the silent pandemic, AMR was linked to 4.7 million deaths annually in 2021. [1] It is estimated to become the leading cause of death by 2050, claiming more than 8 million lives [2] and surpassing cancer [3]. Beyond human health, AMR threatens global food systems by reducing global livestock production and polluting waterways. Tackling this growing crisis requires a unified, whole-of-ecosystem approach. "Antimicrobial resistance is a mounting crisis that threatens to reverse decades of medical progress, with Asia at the epicenter of this challenge. We have identified clear needs, but no single organisation can tackle this alone and substantial philanthropic and catalytic funding is required. It demands all actors — across sectors and borders — to step up, pool resources, and collaborate. Together, we hope that through active partnerships, we can build a future where effective treatments remain within everyone's reach," said Ms. Dawn Chan, Chief Executive Officer, CIIP. "The Davos Compact on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), launched earlier in January this year, seeks to mobilise public-private-philanthropic, cross sectoral collaboration to reduce the global and increasing threat of AMR. This report builds on the Davos Compact, highlighting practical, high impact interventions where catalytic investments can help safeguard health and well-being, reducing risks and deaths associated with AMR," said Ms. Gim Huay Neo, Managing Director, Member of the Managing Board, World Economic Forum. Asia: A Crucible for the Multifaceted AMR Challenge Globally, nearly one in five AMR-related deaths occur in children under five [4], and two in three in adults over 65 [5]. However, Asia bears the brunt of the disease incidence, accounting for more than half of the 4.71 million deaths worldwide associated with AMR in 2021 [6]. Rising temperatures and extreme weather events are accelerating bacterial growth and disease transmission, while disrupting healthcare and immunisation services – particularly in regions with inadequate healthcare infrastructure and sanitation. These climate-related pressures are also driving the increased use of antimicrobials in livestock and crops, contaminating freshwater sources and fuelling drug resistance. In Asia Pacific alone, AMR-related costs are projected to reach up to US$700 billion by 2050, accounting for up to 1% of the region's GDP [7]. However, timely investment in AMR solutions could generate US$10–15 billion in annual healthcare savings, and cut annual socio-economic costs by up to US$40 billion for Asia Pacific within the next decade. [8] Tackling AMR is essential for health security, as well as ensuring long-term economic resilience and sustainable development. A Unified Approach to Antimicrobial Development and Use Despite research advancements, market and policy gaps make it challenging to bring new drugs to patients as the costs involved in development and regulatory approval tend to outweigh the immediate returns upon product launch. A One Health approach — one that recognises the interconnectedness and interdependence across humans, animals, plants, and the wider environment — is essential to tackle AMR sustainably. While new therapeutics such as drugs and vaccines can take 10 to 15 years to develop and launch to market [9] (a marathon), immediate and practical interventions (sprints) are needed to curb resistance today and pave the way for long-term solutions. The report thus proposes interventions in four areas: Sprint 1: 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. Sprint 2: Prevent – Strengthening health systems and services by boosting preventive measures such as improving diagnostic capabilities and investing in better water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) measures. Sprint 3: Monitor – Enhancing regional surveillance, and data collection and sharing between actors, especially in lower-income countries. Marathon: Treat – Investing in research and development for new antimicrobials, and increasing access to novel and essential medicines. Financing AMR Solutions At Every Stage Private funders, impact investors, and philanthropists have a vital role to play in closing critical gaps – 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. "This 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," said Mr. Shaun Seow, Chief Executive Officer, PAA. The AMR threat demands urgent, coordinated, and sustained action across healthcare, agriculture, and food systems to protect communities in Asia. Read the full report here: [1] Naghavi, M., Vollset, S. E., Ikuta, K. S. et al. (2024). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10459, p1199-1226. [2] Naghavi, M., Vollset, S. E., Ikuta, K. S. et al. (2024). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10459, p1199-1226. [3] Gavi (2022). Antimicrobial resistance now causes more deaths than HIV/AIDS and malaria worldwide – new study. 20 January 2022. Available at: [4] Antimicrobial Resistance Collaborators. (2022). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance in 2019: a systematic analysis. The Lancet, Volume 399, Issue 10325, p629-655. [5] Naghavi, M., Vollset, S. E., Ikuta, K. S. et al. (2024). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10459, p1199-1226. [6] Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). (2024). The Lancet: More than 39 million deaths from antibiotic-resistant infections estimated between now and 2050, suggests first global analysis. [7] L.E.K. Consulting (2021) Asia-Pacific in the Eye of AMR Storm: Nurturing Innovation To Fight Antimicrobial Resistance. [8] L.E.K. (2021). Asia-Pacific in the Eye of AMR Storm: Nurturing Innovation To Fight Antimicrobial Resistance. [9] Derep, M. (2022). What's the average time to bring a drug to market in 2022? N-Side. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About the Centre for Impact Investing and Practices The Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP) was established in 2022 as a non-profit entity by Temasek Trust to foster impact investing and practices in Asia and beyond by building and sharing knowledge, bringing together stakeholders in the community, and bringing about positive action that accelerates the adoption of impact investing principles and practices. CIIP is the anchor partner for the United Nation Development Programme's Private Finance for the SDGs, providing Asia investors and businesses with clarity, insights and tools that support their contributions towards achieving the SDGs. Temasek and ABC Impact are CIIP's strategic partners. For more information, please visit About GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) To reach net zero, reverse nature loss and restore biodiversity by 2050, funding for equitable climate and nature transitions must be stepped up by more than $3 trillion annually. No actor can solve these issues alone; only together – through partnerships, elevated ambition and accelerated learning – can the most pressing problems facing the planet be solved. The World Economic Forum launched the GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative to convene 4P – Public, Private and Philanthropic Partnerships – for climate and nature, activating systemic bold partnerships to improve the state of the world. About Philanthropy Asia Alliance Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA) is a Temasek Trust initiative dedicated to catalysing collaborative philanthropy in Asia through dynamic multi-sector partnerships. By harnessing collective strengths, PAA multiplies impact, accelerates positive change, and takes urgent action to address the pressing environmental and social challenges of our time. PAA's flagship programme is the annual Philanthropy Asia Summit. For more information, visit Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP), the World Economic Forum's GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative, and the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA)
Express Tribune
03-03-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
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.
