Antimicrobial Resistance in Nigeria and the One-Health Approach to Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Review

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, to survive, thrive and even proliferate in the presence of chemical agents meant to destroy or slow down their rate of growth. According to a study conducted in 2022, approximately 5 million deaths occurred globally that are related to AMR. This is an astronomical increase from 1.27 million AMR related deaths reported by a study conducted in 2019. By 2050, this number has been projected to rise to 10,000,000 deaths annually. Since AMR has been seen to be an ecological problem it calls for a cooperative, interdisciplinary strategy including experts in environmental, animal, and human health called the One Health strategy. The misuse of antibiotics is clearly linked as a causal factor for the evolution of resistance. Modern medicine has even inadvertently accelerated this change even further by eradicating competitor organisms which were drug-susceptible, thus allowing resistant microorganisms to multiply and spread via natural selection. AMR is also significantly aided by the improper prescription of antibiotics. AMR is a serious public health issue globally an in Nigeria. Current statistics suggest that without taking measured steps the spectrum of antibiotics which will be available for treatment of infections will continue to reduce. Antimicrobial stewardship along with the one health approach are strategies which will help to ensure that AMR can be brought under control.