Antibiotic Resistance as a Global Public Health Threat: Epidemiological Trends and Prevention Strategies

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BSTRACT

Antibiotic resistance represents a persistent and multifaceted challenge to global public health, posing a substantial threat to the effective management of infectious diseases and the sustainability of healthcare systems. The accelerating emergence and dissemination of resistant microorganisms are closely associated with inappropriate antimicrobial use, inadequate infection prevention practices, and increasing reliance on invasive medical interventions. These factors collectively contribute to prolonged illness, increased mortality rates, and significant economic burden worldwide. This study provides an epidemiological overview of antibiotic resistance, focusing on its global distribution, temporal trends, and key determinants influencing its spread across healthcare and community settings. Through the synthesis of current epidemiological evidence and surveillance data, the analysis highlights the growing prevalence of multidrug-resistant pathogens and identifies major transmission pathways. Particular emphasis is placed on healthcare-associated environments, where antimicrobial pressure and patient vulnerability facilitate the rapid propagation of resistant strains. The findings emphasize the critical importance of integrated public health approaches, including antimicrobial stewardship, systematic epidemiological surveillance, and strengthened infection prevention and control measures. A comprehensive understanding of antibiotic resistance dynamics is essential for the development of effective policies, optimization of clinical practices, and mitigation of the global burden of antimicrobial resistance.