Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana warns against antibiotic misuse amid rising resistance.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has issued a strong warning about the dangers of antibiotic misuse as the country grapples with the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In a statement released on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the organization emphasized the critical need for responsible antibiotic use to prevent further escalation of the crisis, which poses a significant threat to public health.
Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of medications, rendering treatments less effective. The PSGH highlighted that misuse of antibiotics, such as self-medication, incomplete dosage adherence, and inappropriate prescriptions, are key contributors to the growing resistance in Ghana.
The statement pointed out alarming statistics indicating a surge in infections that are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to resistant strains of bacteria. This, the PSGH warned, could lead to prolonged hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality rates if urgent measures are not taken.
Dr. Samuel Kow Bentsi-Enchill, President of the PSGH, called on both healthcare professionals and the public to take collective responsibility for combating the issue. He stressed the importance of proper diagnosis and prescription practices by healthcare providers, urging them to ensure antibiotics are only dispensed when medically necessary.
Antibiotics are a critical resource in modern medicine, but their misuse threatens to render them ineffective, Dr. Bentsi-Enchill said. Healthcare providers must commit to appropriate prescribing practices, while the public must resist the temptation to self-medicate.
The PSGH also underscored the need for public education to raise awareness about the dangers of antibiotic misuse. According to the organization, many Ghanaians lack an understanding of the proper use of antibiotics and the consequences of resistance, contributing to the misuse of these life-saving drugs.
The government was also urged to intensify its efforts to address the issue, including stricter regulation of antibiotic sales and increased funding for research into alternative treatments. The PSGH noted that antibiotics are often sold over the counter without prescriptions in Ghana, a practice that exacerbates misuse and accelerates resistance.
The society further recommended implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs in healthcare facilities nationwide. These programs aim to optimize the use of antibiotics, reduce resistance, and improve patient outcomes.
The PSGH's call to action comes as Ghana joins the global community in observing World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, an initiative to highlight the threat of AMR and promote responsible antibiotic use.
In conclusion, the PSGH urged Ghanaians to take immediate steps to address antibiotic misuse, emphasizing that tackling antimicrobial resistance is a shared responsibility. By adhering to proper medication practices, the society believes the country can safeguard the efficacy of antibiotics for future generations.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0