Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern. Experts estimate that by 2050, tens of millions of lives will be at risk. The observation is alarming: bacteria seem to evolve faster than our ability to fight them.
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The study, published in The Lancetanalyzes the evolution of antibiotic resistance since 1990. The results show a worrying increase in deaths attributed to this resistance. More than one million people already die every year because of this phenomenon (5,500 in France).
Between 2025 and 2050, projections speak of 39 million deaths directly linked to resistant infections. Worse still, more indirectly, antibiotic resistance could be associated with 169 million deaths during this period.
The most vulnerable populations are the elderly. Indeed, deaths among adults over 70 have increased by 80% since the 1990s. Demographic aging makes this segment of the population more vulnerable to resistant infections.
However, among children under five years of age, advances in infection prevention and control have halved infection-related deaths. bacteria resistant. But infections among these young people are now more difficult to treat.
Among the most threatening pathogens, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is of particular concern. The latter has become widespread over the decades, rendering certain treatments ineffective.
Despite this grim picture, there are solutions. Improved access to antibiotics and more prudent use could save 92 million lives, particularly in the most affected regions such asAsia of Sud and theAfrica sub-Saharan.
What is antibiotic resistance?
Antibiotic resistance is the ability of certain bacteria to resist the effects of antibiotics. This phenomenon occurs when bacteria mutate or acquire genes allowing them to survive despite the presence of drugs intended to eliminate them.
When bacteria become resistant, the infections they cause become more difficult to treat. This can lead to prolonged hospitalizations, serious complications or even death. Without effective antibiotics, common medical procedures, such as surgeries or cancer treatments, would become much riskier.
Overconsumption and misuse of antibiotics are the main causes of antibiotic resistance. It is essential to only take antibiotics when prescribed by a doctor, to follow recommended doses, and to avoid their use for viral infections such as colds or fever. flu.
