Study Reveals One-Third of Hospital Infections Involve Antimicrobial Resistance

A recent comprehensive study led by the University of Leicester highlights a concerning global trend: approximately 36.5% of hospital-acquired infections involve bacteria resistant to antibiotics. This significant prevalence underscores the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) within healthcare settings, which directly contributes to higher mortality risks for patients. The research analyzed data from 34 hospital-based studies across 18 countries, encompassing over 20,000 patients. Findings indicate that individuals infected with resistant bacteria face a 58% increased chance of death compared to those with non-resistant infections. Notably, bloodstream infections and infections contracted during hospital stays are associated with the highest risks.

Dr. Daniel Pan, an infectious diseases specialist from the NIHR and University of Leicester, emphasized that hospitals are high-risk environments for drug-resistant infections due to widespread antibiotic use and invasive procedures. Despite the availability of effective antibiotics, resistant infections continue to pose a serious threat to patient outcomes.

The study also identified significant research gaps, with under-representation of data from regions such as Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Experts stress that improving surveillance and conducting region-specific studies are critical steps toward tackling the global spread of AMR, in line with emerging United Nations health goals. The findings, published in eClinicalMedicine in September 2025, call for urgent action to address this escalating public health threat.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-hospital-infections-involve-antimicrobial-resistance.html