Saima Wajed, the World Health Organization (WHO) regional director for South-East Asia, said on Monday that developing countries are more vulnerable to antimicrobial resistance – a global health concern that threatens the effectiveness of life-saving drugs and the management of infectious diseases around the world. Is influencing.
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW), observed every year from 18–24 November, aims to raise awareness of global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and encourage best practices. This year’s theme is, “Educate.” Advocate. Act Now”, reflects the urgency and commitment needed to tackle AMR at every level.
According to WHO, an estimated 1.27 million global deaths in 2019 were directly the result of the bacteria AMR, and it also contributed to 4.95 million deaths.
Wazed cited aging population, limited access to health care, and misuse of antimicrobial drugs as major risk factors increasing the risk of AMR in developing countries.
“The urgency to address AMR is clear. High population density, restricted health care access and misuse of antimicrobial drugs increase the risks and impacts of AMR,” said the regional director.
This year, WAAW comes after the historic approval of the 2024 Political Declaration on AMR at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) high-level meeting on AMR and the Fourth Global High-level Ministerial Conference in Jeddah, he said.
Wajed said, “This important announcement sets ambitious targets, while also establishing sustainable financing for AMR action, including a target of at least 60 percent of countries implementing funded national action plans by 2030 “
To address the threat of AMR, he urged the global community to take immediate and decisive action to “educate all stakeholders on AMR, advocate for bold political and financial commitments, and ensure concrete action.”
“The choices we make today will impact the health of future generations. Your commitment and leadership is the key to converting announcements and commitments into results and impact,” said Vaze.
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