GLOBAL TRENDS IN ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as one of the most critical global public health threats, significantly affecting healthcare systems, economies, and patient outcomes. The rapid rise of resistant microorganisms—including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites—has reduced the effectiveness of commonly used antimicrobial drugs, leading to increased treatment failures, prolonged hospitalizations, and higher mortality rates. Recent estimates suggest that if current trends continue, antimicrobial resistance could cause more than 10 million deaths annually by 2050. This systematic literature review aims to examine global trends in antimicrobial resistance by synthesizing recent research on its epidemiology, underlying resistance mechanisms, and the effectiveness of existing intervention strategies. The review evaluates the major drivers of AMR, including the misuse and overuse of antimicrobial agents in healthcare, agriculture, and food production, as well as socio-economic and environmental factors such as urbanization, population growth, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Particular attention is given to multidrug-resistant pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, which present major challenges for clinical treatment. Furthermore, the review assesses current global responses, including antimicrobial stewardship programs, surveillance systems, infection prevention strategies, and the development of novel therapeutic approaches. By analyzing regional patterns of resistance and evaluating the effectiveness of containment efforts, this study highlights critical gaps in current policies and research. The findings emphasize the need for coordinated international efforts and a One Health approach to effectively combat antimicrobial resistance and prevent a potential post-antibiotic era.