Urgent need for responsible drug use in India's fight against AMR: H.E. Freddy Svane

New Delhi: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) poses a significant challenge to global health, particularly in populous countries like India. AMR refers to the ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, to evolve and become resistant to drugs that were previously effective against them.

AMR is a crisis within the Indian healthcare system, as it severely hampers the effective treatment of infectious diseases, leading to higher mortality rates, longer hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs.

H.E. Freddy Svane emphasized the escalating threat of AMR in India during his discussion with ETHealthworld's Rashmi Mabiyan Kaur at the recent partnership launch event for ICARS and C-CAMP.

AMR resistance has been found to primarily stem from the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and even in the environment. Commenting on the AMR threat, Svane stated, "We need to ensure that drugs are only used when necessary. It's not just something you take like water. We must be sure that we are not overusing these drugs, as that will contaminate human beings, animals, and the environment."

Elaborating on the significance of incorporating AMR into the One Health mission, Svane highlighted India's unique demographic advantage. "With the world's largest and youngest population, India possesses a remarkable scale that necessitates a focus on resilience and affordability in healthcare," he noted. As one of the largest drug manufacturers globally, often referred to as the "pharmacy of the world," India must recognize its vital responsibility in addressing AMR. This dual role underscores the urgent need for sustainable practices in drug usage to protect both public health and the environment.

Stressing that one potential solution for AMR would be the utilisation of digital solutions and artificial intelligence, he said, "If we can have digital prescriptions and digital health records, combined with an individual’s genetics, we can determine whether the prescribed drug will be ineffective or beneficial."

Highlighting the importance of responsible drug use and the potential of digital health innovations, Svane called for a concerted effort to address AMR, emphasising India's vital role as a leading global manufacturer of pharmaceuticals and its responsibility in ensuring sustainable healthcare practices.