Context:
According to a new analysis published in the Lancet Planetary Journal, PM2.5 could drive the world’s next public health threat – antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Key Findings:
- Every 10% rise in air pollution was correlated with an AMR increase of 1.1%.
- 93% of India’s population – Exposed to unsafe average levels of PM2.5.
- India and China – Great impact on premature death toll.
About Particulate Matter 2.5(PM 2.5):
- It refers to tiny particles or droplets in the air that have a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller.
- They can be inhaled deeply into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.
- They can travel long distances and remain suspended in the air for extended periods.
- Effects – Impact on respiratory health, cardiovascular health, and other health issues.
- Sources – Combustion processes from vehicles, power plants, industrial facilities as well as natural sources like wildfires and dust storms.
Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) report indicates that in 2019, 1.27 million individuals lost their lives directly due to Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), making AMR a prominent global cause of death surpassing HIV/AIDS and malaria.
About Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR):
- It occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms develop the ability to withstand the effects of antibiotics that were originally effective in treating infections.
- AMR is a global health concernas identified by WHO.
- Effects – Increased illness, prolonged hospital stays, higher healthcare costs, and in some cases, death.
- India’s efforts to tackle AMR –
- National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (2017) – To promote the responsible use of antibiotics, strengthen infection prevention and control measures, improve surveillance of AMR, and enhance public awareness.
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) – To regulate the sale and use of antibiotics.
- India is adopting a “One Health” approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and environmental health in combating AMR.
Superbugs are strains of bacteria that are resistant to several types of antibiotics.
Click here to read about Air Pollution
Source: The Hindu
Previous Year Question
Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
- Genetic predisposition of some people
- Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
- Using antibiotics in livestock farming
- Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
