WHO Calls for Accelerated Action Against Drug-Resistant Superbugs

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning regarding the insufficient progress in developing new tests and treatments to combat the rising threat of drug-resistant bacteria. Despite the increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR)—a situation where bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms no longer respond to existing antimicrobial drugs—the pipeline for new antibiotics and diagnostic tools remains limited.

AMR is a major global health challenge, responsible for over a million deaths each year. The main drivers include the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials, such as antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals, across human health, agriculture, and livestock sectors. This issue disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries, where healthcare infrastructure may be less robust.

In recent reports, WHO highlighted that only 17 new antibacterial agents have been approved since 2017 to target priority bacterial pathogens. Currently, 97 antibacterial drugs are in development, but this number has decreased to 90, with only 15 considered innovative. Additionally, about 232 projects are in preclinical stages, yet most of these are from small companies with fewer than 50 employees, signaling a significant gap in research and development.

The WHO emphasized urgent needs for increased investment, better global collaboration, and the development of treatments suitable for children and outpatient care. They advocate for more transparent data sharing to foster innovation and for new funding models that can support small and medium-sized enterprises engaged in antibacterial research.

Addressing these challenges is critical, as without sustained efforts and innovation, drug-resistant infections are expected to continue spreading, posing severe risks to global health. The WHO urges governments, industry, and research institutions to double down on efforts to combat this dual crisis of antimicrobial resistance and the stagnation in new drug development.

Source: Medical Xpress