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What is AMR?

​Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a critical and growing public health concern that occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of medications, making standard conventional treatments ineffective. This allows infections to persist, increasing the risk of spread, severe illness, and death.

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How Does AMR Develop?

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AMR develops through the natural process of evolution and genetic change. However, the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and agriculture significantly accelerate this process. When microorganisms are exposed to these drugs, susceptible ones are killed, while resistant ones survive and multiply. This selective pressure fosters an environment where resistant strains become more prevalent.

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Key Factors Contributing to AMR:

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  1. Overuse of Antibiotics in Humans: Over-prescription and use of antibiotics for non-bacterial infections.

  2. Incomplete Courses of Treatment: Not completing prescribed antibiotic courses, allowing some bacteria to survive and develop resistance.

  3. Use in Livestock: Excessive use of antibiotics in livestock to promote growth and prevent disease in healthy animals.

  4. Poor Infection Control: Inadequate hygiene and infection control in healthcare settings and the community.

  5. Lack of New Antibiotics: Insufficient investment in the development of new antibiotics to replace those becoming ineffective due to resistance.

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Impact of Livestock on AMR:

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The use of antibiotics in livestock is a significant contributor to the development and spread of AMR. Antibiotics are commonly used in animals not only to treat infections but also to promote growth and prevent disease in crowded or unsanitary conditions. This practice can lead to the development of resistant bacteria, which can be transmitted to humans through direct contact, the environment, and the food supply.

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  1. Direct Transmission: Farmers and workers who handle animals treated with antibiotics can acquire resistant bacteria.

  2. Environmental Spread: Antibiotics and resistant bacteria can enter the environment through animal waste, contaminating soil, water, and crops.

  3. Food Chain Contamination: Resistant bacteria can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of meat and other animal products.

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Implications of AMR:

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  1. Increased Mortality and Morbidity: Resistant infections are harder to treat, leading to prolonged illness and higher mortality rates.

  2. Higher Medical Costs: More extended hospital stays, additional tests, and the need for more expensive drugs.

  3. Threat to Medical Procedures: Compromises the success of surgeries, chemotherapy, and other medical procedures that rely on effective antibiotics to prevent infections.

  4. Global Health Threat: AMR knows no borders, making it a worldwide issue requiring global cooperation and action.

  5. Antimicrobial use in livestock. Available from: FAO - Antimicrobial Resistance

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The World Naturopathic Federation (WNF) is dedicated to addressing AMR through natural and integrative health approaches. Naturopaths play a crucial role in promoting practices that reduce the reliance on antimicrobials and support the body's natural defense mechanisms. This includes:

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  1. Educating Patients: Naturopaths educate patients about the prudent use of antibiotics and the importance of completing prescribed courses. They also emphasize natural ways to prevent infections and maintain health through lifestyle and dietary changes.

  2. Promoting Immune Health: Natural therapies that boost the immune system can reduce the need for antibiotics. This includes the use of botanicals, nutritional supplements, and lifestyle modifications.

  3. Integrative Approaches: Naturopaths advocate for integrative approaches to healthcare, combining conventional and natural therapies to optimize patient outcomes and minimize the use of antimicrobials.

  4. Research and Collaboration: The WNF supports research into natural therapies that can combat infections and reduce the spread of AMR. Collaboration with other health professionals and organizations is essential to develop and promote effective strategies.

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The WNF Committee on AMR focuses on developing educational materials, and resources for naturopaths and the public to effectively address AMR. By integrating evidence-based natural therapies with conventional treatments, naturopaths can play a pivotal role in the global effort to combat AMR.

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References and Resources:

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  1. World Health Organization (WHO): WHO provides extensive resources and guidelines on AMR, including the Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance. Available from: WHO - Antimicrobial resistance

  2. Pan American Health Organization (PAHO): PAHO offers detailed reports and strategies specific to the Americas. Available from: PAHO - Antimicrobial Resistance

  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): CDC’s resources on AMR include guidelines, surveillance data, and educational materials. Available from: CDC - Antibiotic/Antimicrobial Resistance

  4. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC): ECDC provides comprehensive information on AMR, including surveillance and risk assessments. Available from: ECDC - Antimicrobial Resistance

  5. United Nations (UN): The UN's initiatives on AMR focus on a coordinated global response to this pressing issue. Available from: UN - Antimicrobial Resistance

  6. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO): FAO provides guidelines and resources for reducing hunger and improving food security.​​

    Key Points                                

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