Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest threats to global health, yet a new survey of 2,000 respondents, by Pfizer UK, found that just 11% of people see antimicrobial resistance as a serious threat to society. This is despite the outgoing UK Chief Medical Officer, saying earlier this year that Superbugs “could kill us before climate change does”.
The survey results, shared during World Antibiotic Awareness Week, also found that just 0.3% of respondents were aware that AMR already contributes to around 700,000 deaths per year.
Antibiotics have saved millions of lives since they were first discovered – but a world without antibiotics, where people die from infections which are currently treatable, could be closer than we think. Routine procedures, such as c-sections or hip replacements, could become life-threatening due to risk of infection – especially for those with a weakened immune system.However, three-quarters of people asked don’t know or don’t believe that resistance could make c-sections too risky to perform.
If we do not act now, it is estimated that 10 million lives a year could be put at risk due to the rise of drug-resistant infections by 2050.
Susan Rienow, Hospital Business Unit Lead, Pfizer UK: “The survey, launched this World Antibiotics Awareness Week, demonstrates that more needs to be done to raise awareness of the dangers Superbugs pose to society. AMR is a complex problem with no single solution, but a major cultural shift is needed in how we view and use antibiotics. We need to work together to find solutions to ensure that future generations continue to benefit from these life-saving medicines.”
This World Antibiotics Awareness Week find out what you can do to help tackle the superbugs and slow the spread of resistance:
- Keep yourself clean and healthy – The simple act of washing hands can stop infections spreading.
- Use antibiotics correctly – Always follow the instructions you are given by your doctor when taking antibiotics.
- Keep vaccinations up to date for you and your family – Everyone knows the saying – prevention is better than cure.
- Spread the word – To win the fight we need everyone to take action.
Antibiotic resistance occurs naturally, but misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is accelerating the process. This includes using them for things like most coughs and colds where they will have no effect. AMR arises when the micro-organisms which cause infection (e.g. bacteria) survive exposure to a medicine that would normally kill them or stop their growth – creating the so-called Superbugs.
