The emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) has limited the ability to successfully manage common infectious infections and minimize potentially fatal consequences. This has become a critical issue in Nigeria due to indiscriminate use of antibiotics, subpar clinical treatment, the absence of appropriate legislation, a lack of effective antimicrobial resistance surveillance programs, and the prevalence of infectious diseases in the country. Nigerian women who are frequently the primary caregiver, are particularly at risk. Antimicrobial resistance makes common infections more difficult to cure by developing an immunity to antibiotics.
Particularly, women are disproportionately affected as they typically address health issues for themselves and their families, especially in regions with limited resources. Maternal Health is affected by AMR, as infections become severe during pregnancy. The situation is made worse by the shortcomings in the healthcare system, the overuse of antibiotics, and a lack of awareness. Antibiotic abuse exacerbates AMR in humans and animals, posing a threat to Public Health and exacerbating Nigeria’s high rate of maternal death. The antimicrobial resistance issue is exacerbated by additional hurdles related to geography, culture, and economics that restrict access to high-quality treatment, particularly in rural areas.
Poor hygiene procedures contribute to resistant pathogens.
When it comes to maternity and child healthcare, Women frequently use antibiotics for reproductive tract infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and infection prevention during pregnancy. The widespread availability and usage of antibiotics without a prescription has led to a rise in self-medication. In general, people are frequently unaware of the risks associated with antibiotic abuse, this is especially true for women living in rural or marginalized regions. This ignorance contributes to the continuous use of improper antibiotics for illnesses, which can lead to resistance.
According to a World Health Organization (WHO) lists Nigeria as one of the nations most at risk for antibiotic-resistant bacteria, with antibiotic abuse contributing a major role in the emergence of resistant bacterial strains. Women who give birth, have surgery, such as cesarean sections, or have other medical procedures done may become infected with illnesses linked to hospital settings, where resistant bacteria may proliferate. In certain medical institutions, inadequate hygiene procedures, poor sanitation, and ineffective infection control can all contribute to the emergence of resistant pathogens.
Overuse of medication dosages often leads to AMR.
Poverty was also identified as a significant factor in Nigeria’s health issues according to the AMR status study, which was by the Nigerian Medical Association conducted in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Environment, and Health. Due to financial difficulties, several Nigerian households share or use antibiotics that are left over. This often leads to overuse of medications beyond the recommended dosage, which often lead to antimicrobial resistance. Experts emphasize that antimicrobial resistance is not solely a medical problem, but also a social and gendered crisis endangering public health, socioeconomic stability, and advancements in maternal healthcare.
On a global scale, AMR is also recognized as one of the biggest risks to global development and public health. AMR Bacteria is estimated to have been responsible for 4.95 million fatalities globally in 2019, in addition to directly causing 1.27 million deaths. According to World Bank projections, antimicrobial resistance could lead to $1 trillion in increased global healthcare expenses by 2050 and $1 trillion to $3.4 trillion in annual losses in GDP by 2030. Improving public health initiatives, raising awareness, controlling the sale of antibiotics, and fortifying healthcare systems to stop the spread of resistant bacteria, are necessary to address AMR in Nigerian women.
Related Article: Nigeria Launches National AMR Strategy
A report on curbing AMR published by the Nigerian Health Journal (vol 24, issue 2, June 2024) suggested that health care professionals in the public should collaborate with the government to support policies aimed at expanding the general public’s level of comprehension in order to lower the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance across the nation. More importantly, in regions where antibiotic resistance is more prevalent, public health experts ought to encourage health Education programs and campaigning. This will aid in educating the local population about the significance of increased health consciousness and health-seeking behaviors.