Combating Antimicrobial Resistance and Protecting the Miracle of Modern Medicine

Antimicrobial resistance is a health problem that threatens to undermine almost a century of medical progress. Moreover, it is a global problem that requires action both in the United States and internationally. Combating Antimicrobial Resistance and Protecting the Miracle of Modern Medicine discusses ways to improve detection of resistant infections in the United States and abroad, including monitoring environmental reservoirs of resistance. This report sets out a strategy for improving stewardship and preventing infections in humans and animals. The report also discusses the strength of the pipeline for new antimicrobial medicines and steps that could be taken to bring a range of preventive and therapeutic products for humans and animals to the market. Table of Contents Front Matter Summary 1 Introduction 2 The Scope of the Problem 3 The Health and Economic Burden of Resistance 4 Strengthening Surveillance 5 Stewardship and Infection Prevention 6 Bringing New Products to Market and Ensuring Their Reach 7 The National Action Plan for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria 8 A Role for the United States in Coordinated Global Action Appendix A: Committee Member Biographies Appendix B: Disclosure of Unavoidable Conflict of Interest Appendix C: Open Session Agendas