Mapping and monitoring the global burden of antimicrobial-resistance/drug-resistant infections (360G-Wellcome-209142_Z_17_Z)

The increasing number and distribution of pathogens that are resistant to antimicrobial drugs is one of the greatest threats to global health, creating a potential health crisis from infections that were once easy to treat. Despite long-standing recognition of antimicrobial resistance (AMR, also known as drug-resistant infections, DRI’s) across many settings, there is surprisingly poor information about its current and historical geographical distribution and prevalence. This makes formal assessments of its burden difficult to gauge, limiting the ability to drive agendas to combat AMR/DRI. Through incorporating AMR/DRI into the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study, we will provide rigorous quantitative evidence to increase global awareness and surveillance of AMR/DRI, leading towards reductions in its morbidity, mortality, and cost. This work includes collation and synthesis of existing data; developing analytical methods to estimate the fraction of burden from causes attributable to AMR/DRI; and producing and incorporating estimates into interactive maps and visualizations for public access. Results will assess the burden of AMR/DRI over time and provide a benchmark for measuring impact of interventions on future burden. Analyses such as these are urgently required to provide an informed evidence base and quantification of the resultant burden of AMR/DRI on public health.