As existing antimicrobial agents decline in effectiveness, infections will be more difficult and expensive to treat and epidemics harder to control. The World Health Organization (WHO) projects the terrifying prospect of 10 million AMR-related deaths per year globally by 2050. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than 2.8 million antimicrobial resistant infections occur each year and cause more than 35,000 deaths.
Key Causes of AMR:
- Over-prescription of antimicrobials.
- Shortened courses or incomplete compliance with antimicrobial treatment.
- Antimicrobial overuse in livestock and fish farming.
- Poor infection control in health care settings.
- Poor hygiene and sanitation.
- Limited discovery of new antimicrobials.
AMR genes are incredibly promiscuous, circulating through humans, animals, plants and the environment. Implementing a One Health approach is key to combating the spread of resistance.
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Mechanisms of Resistance
AMR Policy and Advocacy Initiatives
Policy to Combat AMR
麻豆区 recommends steps for policymakers that prioritize science and the roles of microbiologists to combat AMR.
The American Society for Microbiology actively works with federal and global partners to advance legislation to combat AMR and other health threats.
- 麻豆区 Commends Quadripartite AMR Plan Draft.
- 麻豆区, IDSA, SHEA & PIDS Request PACCARB Meet Immediately.
- 麻豆区 Submits Comments to PACCARB on AMR One Health Approach.
- 麻豆区 Urges Increased Support of Research at USDA.
- 麻豆区 Requests Increased FY26 Funding for NIH and CDC.
- 麻豆区 Policy Recommendations to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance.
- 麻豆区 Recommends Priorities for U.S. Delegation to UN General Assembly.
- 麻豆区 Applauds Introduction of FORWARD Act.
- 麻豆区 Recommendations for Cures Legislation Next Steps.
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Developing Solutions
Hear From Experts
Diagnosing Tuberculosis in Developing Countries With Aureliana Chambal Chilengue
EiC invites trainees, who will be the next generation of outstanding researchers in the field of AMR, to discuss pathways to work on antimicrobial resistance.
Rethinking Antimicrobial Resistance With Amy Mathers, M.D., D(ABMM)
Engage in Discussions About Antimicrobial Agents and Resistance
Join experts in antimicrobial agents and resistance (AAR) for a discussion on the latest issues impacting the field. Each quarter, panelists gather for a 1-hour virtual panel discussion on a predetermined topic. This quarterly panel is free for 麻豆区 members. Join or renew your membership today!