Daily Current Affairs : 19-August-2023

In recent times, a significant study has come to light, shedding new insights on the spread of antimicrobial resistance through the air. This revelation holds relevance for areas where air pollution levels are elevated. The study primarily focuses on the relationship between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) air pollution and the emergence of antibiotic resistance. This essay aims to delve into the key details of the study and its implications for global health.

Understanding the Linkage

Air pollution is a grave global concern, responsible for a staggering seven million deaths annually across the world. This environmental health threat has now been associated with another menace: antibiotic resistance. The study uncovers that even a modest 10 percent increase in annual PM2.5 could lead to a 1.1 percent surge in overall antibiotic resistance and a daunting toll of 43,654 premature deaths.

Countrywise Impact

The study’s findings offer a glimpse into the potential effects of increased PM2.5 pollution on antibiotic resistance across various countries. For instance:

  • Saudi Arabia might experience a three percent rise in antibiotic resistance with a 10 percent surge in PM2.5.
  • Niger could face a 2.9 percent increase.
  • The United Arab Emirates might witness a 2.6 percent surge.
  • Pakistan, Nigeria, and India are projected to see a 2.6 percent rise.
  • Cameroon and Bahrain might experience a 2.2 percent increase.
  • China and India, due to their vast populations, could be hit the hardest with a 2.1 percent rise.
Impact of PM2.5 Reduction

The study also underscores the significance of reducing air pollution. If the World Health Organization’s (WHO) air quality guideline of five micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3) of PM2.5 concentration is achieved by 2050, the benefits would be remarkable. This achievement could lead to a reduction of antibiotic resistance by 16.8 percent and could spare 23.4 percent of premature deaths attributed to antibiotic resistance. In monetary terms, this reduction equates to a staggering $640 billion in savings.

Africa and Asia at Risk

The study particularly draws attention to the potential consequences for Africa and Asia. These regions are identified as having the highest risk of facing a surge in antibiotic resistance due to PM2.5 pollution. This revelation sounds an alarm for countries with high levels of air pollution in these regions to take necessary actions to mitigate the impact.

Important Points:

  • A recent study highlights a concerning link between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) air pollution and antibiotic resistance.
  • Air pollution is a significant global health threat, causing approximately seven million deaths annually.
  • A 10 percent increase in annual PM2.5 pollution could result in a 1.1 percent rise in antibiotic resistance and 43,654 premature deaths worldwide.
  • Several countries are particularly vulnerable to increased antibiotic resistance due to PM2.5 pollution, including Saudi Arabia, Niger, UAE, Pakistan, Nigeria, India, Cameroon, Bahrain, China, and India.
  • China and India, due to their large populations, might experience the most significant effects on antibiotic resistance and premature deaths.
  • Reducing PM2.5 pollution to meet the WHO guideline of five micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3) by 2050 could lead to a 16.8 percent reduction in antibiotic resistance and save 23.4 percent of premature deaths, equivalent to $640 billion in savings.
  • Africa and Asia are at the highest risk of facing increased antibiotic resistance due to PM2.5 pollution.
  • This study underscores the urgent need to address air pollution as a critical factor in the emergence of antibiotic resistance, emphasizing its importance for global health.
Why In News

A groundbreaking study sheds fresh insight into the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance via airborne transmission, underscoring its significance for regions grappling with elevated levels of air pollution. These findings offer critical implications for healthcare systems worldwide, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to combat this emerging threat.

MCQs about Pollution and Antibiotic Resistance

  1. What potential benefits are associated with reducing PM2.5 pollution to meet the WHO guideline by 2050?
    A. A reduction in antibiotic resistance by 50%.
    B. A 10% reduction in premature deaths attributable to antibiotic resistance.
    C. A 16.8% reduction in antibiotic resistance and avoidance of 23.4% of premature deaths.
    D. No significant impact on antibiotic resistance or premature deaths.
    Correct Answer: C. A 16.8% reduction in antibiotic resistance and avoidance of 23.4% of premature deaths.
    Explanation: The reducing PM2.5 pollution to meet the WHO guideline by 2050 could lead to a 16.8% reduction in antibiotic resistance and avoid 23.4% of premature deaths attributable to antibiotic resistance.
  2. How does a 10 percent increase in annual PM2.5 pollution affect antibiotic resistance?
    A. It reduces antibiotic resistance by 10 percent.
    B. It has no effect on antibiotic resistance.
    C. It leads to a 1.1 percent increase in antibiotic resistance.
    D. It reduces antibiotic resistance by 1.1 percent.
    Correct Answer: C. It leads to a 1.1 percent increase in antibiotic resistance.
    Explanation: A 10 percent increase in annual PM2.5 pollution could result in a 1.1 percent increase in antibiotic resistance.
  3. Which regions are identified as potentially facing the largest increase in antibiotic resistance due to PM2.5 pollution?
    A. North America and Europe.
    B. South America and Africa.
    C. Africa and Asia.
    D. Australia and Antarctica.
    Correct Answer: C. Africa and Asia.
    Explanation: The Africa and Asia could face the largest increase in antibiotic resistance due to PM2.5 pollution.

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