Experts launch comprehensive plan to address antimicrobial resistance in Latin America

2025-01-30

Leading health experts and environmental advocates have united to address one of the most pressing global health challenges: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). In a groundbreaking webinar, the Instituto de Defensa de Consumidores (IDEC), Brazil and ReAct Latin America presented a new policy brief outlining strategic recommendations to address this growing global health challenge.

The policy brief, titled “Antimicrobial Resistance: policy recommendations” brings together diverse perspectives from public health, animal welfare, and environmental sectors.

It outlines several key strategies, including the development of comprehensive educational programs, establishment of national surveillance systems, and promotion of sustainable practices in animal agriculture. A particular emphasis is placed on implementing the BR-Glass system for hospital surveillance and eliminating growth promoters like bacitracin in animal production.

Health is a systemic problem

During the launch-webinar Dr Arturo Quizhpe, Director of ReAct Latin America, emphasized that AMR is not merely a health issue but a systemic problem affecting the delicate balance between humans, animals, and the environment.

“We need to fundamentally rethink our approach to antimicrobial use, particularly in animal production and health systems,”

Dr Quizhpe stated during the presentation.”

This requires both ethical consideration and practical action.”

World Animal Protection Brazil representative Karina Ishida highlighted the critical link between intensive animal farming and AMR.

“The overuse of antimicrobials in animal production is contributing significantly to this crisis,”

Ishida explained.

“We need structural changes in agricultural practices, focusing on animal welfare and biosecurity rather than routine antibiotic use.”

Environmental aspects received special attention from Professor Ricardo Abramovay of the Josué de Castro Chair at USP, who discussed how antimicrobial residues in water, soil, and air contribute to bacterial resistance. He called for stronger environmental regulations and international cooperation to address these concerns.

Local implementation

The local implementation of these policies was addressed by Professor Rita Albernaz Gonçalves from Instituto Federal Catarinense, who stressed the importance of adapting strategies to regional and cultural contexts. Meanwhile, Dr. Monica Luz Carvalho-Soares provided insights into the current state of antimicrobial consumption surveillance in Brazil, noting both progress and remaining challenges.

The initiative represents a significant step forward in creating a coordinated response to AMR in Latin America.

The policy brief advocates for an integrated system combining human, animal, and environmental health data to identify high-risk regions and optimize resource allocation.

ReAct Latin America and IDEC emphasized that success in addressing AMR requires collective action and cross-sector collaboration. The policy brief serves as both a warning about the urgency of the situation and a practical roadmap for implementing evidence-based solutions.