AMR Could Cause 39 Million Deaths by 2050

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a severe global health threat, with estimates predicting it could cause over 39 million deaths by 2050. The World Health Organization and various studies highlight that AMR leads to pathogens becoming resistant to medications, rendering infections harder to treat and increasing mortality rates. Particularly vulnerable are older adults and individuals in regions such as South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Studies indicate that AMR-related deaths among those 70 years and older may rise by 146% by 2050, while deaths among children under 5 have declined. The economic impact is also substantial, with the World Bank predicting up to $3.4 trillion in GDP losses annually by 2030. Urgent action in developing new medications and improving global healthcare practices is required to mitigate this threat.