The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm over the lack of new tests and treatments to counter the growing spread of drug-resistant bacteria.
Antimicrobial Resistance: A Rising Global Threat
According to the WHO, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the world’s most urgent public health challenges. Each year, drug-resistant infections are believed to cause more than a million deaths. The problem is particularly severe in low- and middle-income countries, where the burden of AMR falls disproportionately.
Misuse and Overuse Driving Resistance
As reported by medicalxpress, the agency highlights that the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials—including antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals—in humans, animals, and plants remain the leading drivers of resistance.
Urgent Warning on Limited Progress
In two new reports on tests and treatments for bacterial infections, the WHO stressed that progress is far too slow.
“Antimicrobial resistance is escalating, but the pipeline of new treatments and diagnostics is insufficient to tackle the spread of drug-resistant bacterial infections,” said WHO Assistant Director-General Yukiko Nakatani. She emphasized that without stronger investment in research, development, and equitable access, resistant infections will continue to spread.
Declining Pipeline of Treatments
Since the WHO began tracking antibacterial development in 2017, only 17 new antibacterial agents targeting priority pathogens have received market authorization. In 2023, 97 antibacterials were in the clinical pipeline. However, that number has now dropped to 90.
Scarcity and Lack of Innovation
The WHO described the situation as a “dual crisis” marked by both scarcity and lack of innovation. Out of the 90 antibacterials in development, only 15 qualify as innovative.
Meanwhile, in the preclinical stage, researchers are working on around 232 projects. Yet, 90% of the 148 companies involved are small enterprises with fewer than 50 employees, raising concerns about sustainability and funding.
Gaps in Critical Areas
The organization particularly noted significant gaps in child-friendly formulations and oral treatments suitable for outpatients. It also urged developers to share data on antibacterial activity to encourage collaboration, attract investment, and speed up innovation.
Call for Investment and New Funding Models
To address these challenges, the WHO called for stronger global investment in diagnostic tools and treatments, especially those designed for low-resource settings. It also urged the creation of new funding models to support small- and medium-sized enterprises that currently drive most antibacterial and diagnostic research.