Antimicrobial resistance crisis urgently needs greater European action
The Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME) has updated its policy on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), calling for greater EU action for a deepening crisis which is leaving doctors short of effective treatments for life-threatening infections.
AMR is one of the greatest global health threats, causing 1.2 million deaths each year, more than 35 000 of which are in Europe. Bacteria have evolved ways to resist antibiotics, accelerated by overuse or misuse of medicines, including in agriculture.
Whilst the effectiveness of current antibiotics is decreasing, no novel class of antibiotics has been brought to market since the 1980s. In addition, this winter medicine shortages in most European countries left doctors and patients without access to critical antibiotics.
“Europe is facing a growing public health threat from AMR. It is crucial that we keep existing antibiotics working. We emphasise that prudent prescription of antibiotics is a responsibility of each practicing doctor in Europe and worldwide. We need to act in collaboration with many partners and are committed to the One Health approach bringing together the human health, veterinary and environmental sectors.
“The revision of the EU’s pharmaceutical legislation provides an opportunity that cannot be missed. We call for legislation that provides responsible incentives for innovation and equitable access to medicines, as well as facilitates prudent use of established antibiotics.
“Shortages of existing antibiotics pose a real challenge for doctors, and we need to ensure that the shortages that occurred in recent months do not happen again next winter. Antibiotics should be considered a public good and we urge decisive measures to be taken to ensure stable supply of antibiotics in the future.”
Event invitation: How to make progress on tackling AMR?
27 April, Stockholm and online
Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance in Medical Practice
Date and time: 27 April 2023, 13:00-16:15
Location: Swedish Medical Association, Villagatan 5, Stockholm
You are warmly invited to join the event either in person or online. Please note that on-site participation is “first come , first served”.
REGISTER FOR IN PERSON OR ONLINE ATTENDANCE
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