Antibiotic misuse is a significant threat. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antibiotic resistance is one of the top global public health threats, estimated to cause millions of deaths annually.
This article warns that overuse of antibiotics can lead to dangerous antibiotic resistance. Learn how to use antibiotics safely and effectively.
Antibiotic Misuse: A Growing Threat in Asia
Antibiotic resistance is a serious global health threat, and Asia is one of the regions most affected. When antibiotics are overused or misused, bacteria can develop resistance to these life-saving drugs. Consequently, antibiotics become ineffective in treating infections, leading to longer illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and even death.
Why is Antibiotic Misuse a Problem in Asia?
Several factors contribute to the problem of antibiotic misuse in Asia. These include:
- Self-medication: Many people in Asia resort to self-medication with antibiotics, often without consulting a doctor. This can happen for several reasons, including lack of access to healthcare or the belief that antibiotics can cure any infection. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that up to 50% of antibiotic use in some Asian countries is inappropriate.
- Over-the-counter antibiotics: In some Asian countries, antibiotics are available over-the-counter without a prescription.
- Pressure from patients: Some patients in Asia may pressure doctors to prescribe antibiotics, even if they are not necessary. This can be due to a lack of understanding about antibiotic resistance or a desire for a quick fix. Additionally, a study published in the journal “Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control” found that 42% of patients in a Chinese hospital felt pressured by family or friends to take antibiotics.
- Incomplete antibiotic courses: People may stop taking antibiotics once they start to feel better, even if they haven’t completed the full course of treatment. Thereafter, this can contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance.
The Dangers of Antibiotic Resistance
Antibiotic resistance is a serious public health threat. When antibiotics become ineffective, it becomes more difficult to treat common infections. This can lead to:
- Longer illnesses: People with antibiotic-resistant infections may take longer to recover.
- Increased healthcare costs: Treating antibiotic-resistant infections can be more expensive than treating infections with effective antibiotics. Doctors may need to use more potent, more expensive antibiotics or longer courses of treatment.
- Higher death rates: In some cases, antibiotic-resistant infections can be fatal.
 What Can Be Done to Address Antibiotic Misuse?
Several things can be done to address antibiotic misuse in Asia. These include:
- Public education campaigns: Educating the public about the dangers of antibiotic misuse is essential. Therefore, people must understand that antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections and that using them for viral illnesses or other conditions is not helpful. Campaigns can be tailored to local languages and cultural contexts for better impact.
- Improved access to healthcare: People need access to healthcare professionals who can diagnose and treat infections appropriately. This will help to reduce reliance on antibiotics for self-medication. Governments and healthcare organisations can work towards expanding access to primary care facilities in rural areas.
- Regulation of antibiotic sales: Restricting the sale of over-the-counter antibiotics can help prevent misuse. Regulatory bodies can work with pharmacies to ensure antibiotics are only dispensed with a doctor’s prescription.
- Antibiotic stewardship programs: Hospitals and other healthcare facilities can implement programs to ensure that antibiotics are used only when necessary and correctly. These programs can involve training healthcare providers on appropriate antibiotic use and monitoring antibiotic prescribing patterns.
Antibiotic Resistance in Asia
Antibiotic resistance is a severe threat to public health in Asia. Therefore, addressing antibiotic misuse can help ensure these life-saving drugs remain effective for future generations.
In conclusion, we can curb the rise of antibiotic resistance in Asia and ensure that antibiotics remain effective for generations to come.
Reference :
- World Health Organization. Antimicrobial resistance. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/health-topics/antimicrobial-resistance
Kementerian Kesehatan Republik Indonesia. [Website Ayo Sehat]. Gunakan Obat Antibiotik dengan Bijak, Cegah Resistensi [Use Antibiotics Wisely, Prevent Resistance]. Retrieved from https://ayosehat.kemkes.go.id/gunakan-obat-antibiotik-dengan-bijak-cegah-resistensi
