IMA Launches CAMP-AMR to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance in India
New Delhi: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has launched the Commonwealth Alliance of Medical Professionals on Antimicrobial Resistance (CAMP-AMR), an initiative uniting Commonwealth nations to address the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). This effort is particularly critical for India, which is recognized as a global hotspot for antibiotic-resistant infections.
Highlighting the severity of the issue, Dr Narendra Saini, Chairman of IMA, stated, “AMR is a formidable threat to public health in India, contributing to 297,000 deaths directly and another 1.04 million associated deaths in 2019 alone. This alliance is a beacon of hope and action, aiming to reverse these alarming trends through unity and coordinated efforts.”
Dr Saini explained that AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites become resistant to antimicrobial medicines like antibiotics, antibacterials, and antivirals. “The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that this resistance renders infections increasingly difficult or impossible to treat, heightening the risk of disease spread, severe illness, disability, and mortality. We must act swiftly and decisively to address this crisis,” he added.
Dr J A Jayalal, President of the Commonwealth Medical Association, emphasized the global commitment: “The Commonwealth Declaration on AMR symbolizes our unified commitment to confronting this silent pandemic. By harnessing the collective expertise and resources of Commonwealth nations, we aim to significantly curb the threat of AMR and ensure effective healthcare interventions remain available for future generations.”
Dr R V Asokan, IMA National President, outlined the alliance’s strategic goals: “CAMP-AMR is a strategic imperative in our battle against AMR. It is crucial that we eliminate over-the-counter sales of antibiotics and enhance public awareness about their judicious use. Through this alliance, we are determined to implement robust measures and policies to prevent the further spread of AMR in India.”
The IMA’s CAMP-AMR initiative reaffirms its commitment to spearheading global partnerships, leveraging expertise, and implementing impactful policies to combat AMR and safeguard public health for generations to come.
Rishika Verma is a graduate from Delhi University. She joined Medical Dialogues in 2023. Her interest lies in reporting health news, hospital updates, health updates, medical case studies, and advancements in healthcare, etc.