Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotics have saved countless lives since their discovery in the twentieth century. Yet bacteria are evolving to survive the very medicines designed to destroy them. Each time an antibiotic is used, the most resistant bacteria have a chance to multiply. Overprescription and the widespread use of antibiotics in farming have accelerated this process. As a result, some common infections are becoming increasingly difficult to treat. Developing new antibiotics is expensive and offers limited financial rewards for companies. Health authorities are therefore urging doctors to prescribe them more cautiously. Patients can help by completing their treatment and never sharing medication. Without coordinated global action, routine surgery could become far more dangerous.