The introduction and widespread use of antimicrobial agents has contributed to the significant decline in the morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases. However, the health gains achieved are seriously threatened by the rapidly growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), including multi-drug resistance. AMR undermines the achievements gained thus far in treating infections of major public health importance, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, acute respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and sexually transmitted infections. The problem has now crossed all national, geographical, and ethnic boundaries and become a truly global problem.
As global initiatives, such as the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM), the World Bank Multi-country AIDS Program (MAP), and The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief increase the flow of medicines to developing countries, there is increasing urgency to confront the potential for the accelerated development of resistance. Critical investments must be made in raising awareness about AMR, ensuring the proper management of the increased quantities of medicines, and monitoring the use of these medicines.
No single organization can address the global problem of AMR, so RPM Plus works closely with others to slow the spread of AMR through training programs, tools dissemination, and advocacy.
Learn more about RPM Plus's cross-cutting areas of work in AMR.
