·         99% of Brits are not aware of AMR’s full impact and only 11% see it as a serious threat to society

·         Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) contributes to more than 700,000 deaths each year

·         Estimated 10 million lives a year could be put at risk because of the rise of drug-resistant infections by 2050

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) should be taken more seriously, yet more than 99% of the population are not fully aware of its impact. This is despite the outgoing UK Chief Medical Officer saying earlier this year that Superbugs “could kill us before climate change does”.

Superbugs, bacteria which develop resistance, already cause more than 700,000 deaths every year and the figure could rise to 10 million by 2050.

But, only 11% of Britons view AMR as a serious threat to society, ranking it below climate change (50%), religious conflicts (27%), and unemployment (23%), according to new research from Pfizer UK. 

Antibiotics have saved millions of lives since they were first discovered – but a world without antibiotics, where people die from infections which are currently treatable, could be closer than we think. Routine procedures, from c-sections to hip replacements, would become life-threatening – effectively any infection could become a death sentence, especially for those with a weakened immune system – for instance those undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer.[i] However, three-quarters of people asked don’t know or don’t believe that resistance could make caesareans too risky to perform.

Susan Rienow, Hospital Business Unit Lead, Pfizer UK: “The Pfizer UK survey, launched this World Antibiotics Awareness Week, demonstrates that more needs to be done to raise awareness of the dangers Superbugs pose to society. AMR is a complex problem with no single solution, but a major cultural shift is needed in how we view and use antibiotics. We need to work together to find solutions to ensure that future generations continue to benefit from these life-saving medicines.”

Antibiotic resistance occurs naturally, but misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is accelerating the process. This includes using them for things like coughs and colds where they will have no effect.

AMR arises when the micro-organisms which cause infection (e.g. bacteria) survive exposure to a medicine that would normally kill them or stop their growth – creating the so-called Superbugs. 

If we do not act today, it is estimated that 10 million lives a year could be put at risk due to the rise of drug-resistant infections by 2050.[ii] 

[i] Teillant A, et al. Potential burden of antibiotic resistance on surgery and cancer chemotherapy antibiotic prophylaxis in the USA: a literature review and modelling study. The Lancet Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2015. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(15)00270-4

[ii] World Health Organization. No Time to Wait: Securing the future from drug-resistant infections. Available at: https://www.who.int/antimicrobial-resistance/interagency-coordination-group/final-report/en/. Last accessed October 2019.

Earth’s tropical regions contain some of the most beautiful sites on the planet, but also some of the most virulent diseases that infect humans. Today, over one billion people around the world are affected by tropical diseases. Medical professionals are sorely needed in tropical countries to provide basic medical services to the world’s poorest and most vulnerable. Those who commit to serving in this way must be prepared, as there are some common tropical diseases with which they may come into contact. 

Three Common Diseases To Consider: Symptoms And Transmission

While there are countless diseases in the tropics, three in particular warrant additional focus and preparation before one visits the region to assist in a medical capacity.

Dengue Fever – This disease is a significant danger to people living in tropical regions – approximately 1/3 of the world’s population. As a mosquito-borne disease, dengue fever can best be prevented by disrupting or destroying mosquito colonies. On an individual basis, travelers should consistently use mosquito repellents to reduce exposure. Remain alert if you are in areas with nearby stagnant water, and regularly check for signs of mosquito bites.

Once contracted, symptoms of the disease generally present within 8-14 days. Fortunately, most people infected with the virus will only face mild symptoms, including a fever and rash. For about 5% of the population, however, the disease may cause hemorrhage, fluid accumulation in the chest, and blood supply issues, potentially leading to fatality. This risk is highest in those previously infected with the disease.

Rabies – Rabies is a worldwide disease, so its occurrence in the tropics is no surprise. It is transmitted by direct contact with infected saliva, generally through a bite. Small animals, including bats, dogs, and rodents, all pose a significant risk to humans. Avoiding transmission involves being aware of abnormal behavior; if an animal is unusually aggressive or fearless, there is a significant risk that they are infected. As direct contact is the only means of transmission, there is no other way to prevent transmission than simply avoiding infected animals.

The disease may incubate for 1-3 months after contraction before presenting symptoms. While there is a 99+% mortality rate once symptoms present, vaccination is often still effective, even if administered after infection, so long as it is done so before symptoms occur. Rabies usually presents as hydrophobia, prompting irrational fear of liquids and an inability to swallow saliva along with aggression and uncharacteristic behavior. In a minority of cases, it will instead cause muscle weakness and paralysis.

Leprosy – This is an ancient disease with a long-documented history of afflicting human communities. Leprosy is contagious through human-to-human contact, with speculation as to whether it can occur through contact with sweat or nasal droplets. The best way to avoid contracting this disease is to limit contact with those who are already infected. 

When the disease begins to present symptoms, they include characteristic pink or red patches of hard skin. Over time, these patches necrotize, and cause significant deformities in most cases, as well as nerve damage in a minority of cases. The disease is treatable, and much of the damage reversible if caught in time, though nerve damage is generally permanent.

Opportunities To Help Those In The Tropics

Many people in tropical nations experience tremendous poverty and lack access to adequate medical treatment. When this is combined with poor sanitation and climates that encourage some of the most virulent diseases, there are many opportunities for those who desire to help. Those looking to put their medical knowledge to the best use with a positive approach should prepare for the numerous diseases in the tropics. The diseases listed above are not the only ones visitors may contract, so it is essential that visitors engage in proper hygiene to kill pathogens and prevent parasitic infection, including frequently washing hands and using sanitizers. With appropriate preparation, medical professionals can safely join the fight against diseases which threaten billions around the world.