Antibiotic Resistance Continues to Be a Global Health Threat

While antibiotic resistance continues to threaten public health on a global scale, experts emphasize that the unnecessary use of drugs must be prevented.

Antibiotic resistance remains among the most significant public health issues straining health systems worldwide. According to World Health Organization data, an estimated 4.71 million deaths were associated with bacterial antimicrobial resistance in 2021, and 1.14 million deaths were directly attributed to resistance. This picture once again underscores the vital importance of rational drug use and correct treatment.

At the 7th Functional Medicine Congress, held this year with the theme "Beyond Functional Medicine: 7P Medicine," personalized evaluation and a root-cause-focused approach in disease management were discussed. It was stated at the congress that unnecessary antibiotic use in upper respiratory tract infections must be prevented. Stating that a significant portion of upper respiratory tract infections are of viral origin, Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist Dr. Esin Özlem Atmış noted that antibiotic use is not necessary for every infection. Conveying that the majority of acute rhinosinusitis cases are viral, Atmış stated that alternative treatments aimed at alleviating symptoms can be evaluated in appropriate patients.