UK Antibiotic Resistance Figures Soar: 17% Rise in Deaths Linked to Superbugs in England
The UK Health Security Agency has released alarming figures showing a 17% increase in deaths linked to antibiotic-resistant superbugs in England last year. This surge in mortality highlights the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance, with experts warning that it poses one of the greatest health threats we face.
According to official data, nearly 400 newly reported cases of antibiotic-resistant infections occurred each week on average in 2024. The estimated number of deaths from these resistant infections rose by 17% between 2023 and 2024, with a total of 2,379 reported deaths. This rise is attributed to the growing concern over the misuse and overuse of antibiotics.
The UK government's Pharmacy First scheme has been singled out for criticism following a significant increase in private prescriptions for antibiotics, which rose by 22% in 2024. While intended to free up GPs to deal with more complex health issues, this policy has raised questions about its impact on resistance. Critics argue that patients can now access antibiotics without seeing a GP, potentially contributing to the spread of resistant strains.
The UKHSA's chief executive, Prof Susan Hopkins, expressed concern over the growing trend in antibiotic resistance. "Antibiotic resistance is one of the greatest health threats we face," she said. "More people than ever are acquiring infections that cannot be effectively treated by antibiotics, putting them at greater risk of serious illness and even death."
The data highlights the need for careful management of antibiotics, with experts urging patients to only take medication when prescribed by a healthcare professional. The UKHSA has emphasized the importance of responsible prescribing practices, including disposing of leftover antibiotics properly.
As resistance continues to spread, global health experts predict that it could cause as many as 10 million deaths a year by 2050 if left unchecked. Limiting antibiotic use and promoting responsible prescribing practices are key strategies in combating this growing threat.
The UK Health Security Agency has released alarming figures showing a 17% increase in deaths linked to antibiotic-resistant superbugs in England last year. This surge in mortality highlights the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance, with experts warning that it poses one of the greatest health threats we face.
According to official data, nearly 400 newly reported cases of antibiotic-resistant infections occurred each week on average in 2024. The estimated number of deaths from these resistant infections rose by 17% between 2023 and 2024, with a total of 2,379 reported deaths. This rise is attributed to the growing concern over the misuse and overuse of antibiotics.
The UK government's Pharmacy First scheme has been singled out for criticism following a significant increase in private prescriptions for antibiotics, which rose by 22% in 2024. While intended to free up GPs to deal with more complex health issues, this policy has raised questions about its impact on resistance. Critics argue that patients can now access antibiotics without seeing a GP, potentially contributing to the spread of resistant strains.
The UKHSA's chief executive, Prof Susan Hopkins, expressed concern over the growing trend in antibiotic resistance. "Antibiotic resistance is one of the greatest health threats we face," she said. "More people than ever are acquiring infections that cannot be effectively treated by antibiotics, putting them at greater risk of serious illness and even death."
The data highlights the need for careful management of antibiotics, with experts urging patients to only take medication when prescribed by a healthcare professional. The UKHSA has emphasized the importance of responsible prescribing practices, including disposing of leftover antibiotics properly.
As resistance continues to spread, global health experts predict that it could cause as many as 10 million deaths a year by 2050 if left unchecked. Limiting antibiotic use and promoting responsible prescribing practices are key strategies in combating this growing threat.