Antibiotic Consumption on the Rise in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany – Antibiotic consumption has seen a continued increase in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, according to AOK Nordost, a regional health insurance provider. In 2023, doctors in the state prescribed around 550,000 doses of antibiotics, equivalent to approximately 370 prescriptions per 1,000 insured individuals – a 5% increase compared to 2019.
Pandemic Impact and Surge
During the pandemic years, antibiotic consumption had decreased due to reduced infections resulting from social distancing measures and reluctance to visit doctors due to infection fears.
Data Analysis and Concerns
The data is based on an analysis from the Scientific Institute of AOK for all statutory health insurance members in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and is considered representative. A particularly concerning trend is the rise in prescriptions for reserve antibiotics, which increases the risk of multi-resistant pathogens.
Supply Shortages and Implications
According to AOK, one potential reason for the increase could be supply shortages of antibiotic substances in 2023. This may have led doctors to prescribe substances that were not their preferred choice. Reserve antibiotics should only be used when standard antibiotics are ineffective or a severe infection is present.
Alarming Death Toll
In 2021, an estimated 8,000 people in Germany died due to antibiotic resistance, according to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation.
Urgent Action Needed
The AOK emphasizes the need for urgent action to address the rising antibiotic consumption and prevent the further spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This includes:
- Prudent Prescribing: Doctors should carefully consider the necessity of antibiotic prescriptions and avoid overprescribing.
- Patient Education: Patients should be informed about the risks of antibiotic resistance and the importance of using antibiotics only when necessary.
- Infection Prevention: Public health measures to prevent infections, such as vaccination campaigns and hygiene practices, should be promoted.
- Surveillance and Monitoring: Regular surveillance and monitoring of antibiotic consumption and resistance patterns are crucial for tracking trends and implementing effective interventions.
- Research and Innovation: Continuous research and development are essential to discover new antibiotics and combat the threat of antibiotic resistance.
Conclusion
The rising antibiotic consumption in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address this global public health challenge. By promoting prudent prescribing, patient education, infection prevention, surveillance, and research, we can work towards a future where effective antibiotics remain available and the threat of antibiotic resistance is minimized.
