WHO cautioned that the misuse and irrational use of drugs are weakening the fight against diseases, such as tuberculosis and malaria, that should have been contained decades ago. At the same time, other age-old diseases are on the rise, with the possibility of no cure.
The rallying cry of this year’s World Health Day, observed on April 7, was “Combat drug resistance! No action today, no cure tomorrow.”
“Antimicrobial drug resistance is a complex problem, and it requires a comprehensive response among and between Member States across different sectors,” said Dr. Shin Young-soo, WHO regional director for the Western Pacific.
WHO launched on World Health Day a six-point policy package for countries in an effort to fight drug resistance:
(1) committing to a comprehensive, financed national plan with lines of accountability and community engagement;
(2) strengthening surveillance and laboratory capacity;
(3) ensuring a regular supply of good-quality medicines;
(4) regulating and promoting rational use of medicines and proper patient care;
(5) enhancing infection prevention and control in health settings; and
(6) fostering innovation, research and development.
WHO said antimicrobial resistance is a global concern not only because it kills but because it increases health costs and threatens patient care.
