The need to increase antimicrobial resistance surveillance among forcibly displaced persons (FDPs)

• Published in: Tropical Diseases, Travel Medicine and Vaccines
• Main Authors: Sodiq Inaolaji Yusuff, Yusuf Amuda Tajudeen, Iyiola Olatunji Oladunjoye, Habeebullah Jayeola Oladipo, Olufunmilayo Victoria Bolarinwa, Olalekan Tolulope Popoola, Abdulhakeem Funsho Ahmed, Matifan Dereje Olana
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2023
• Subjects: Antimicrobial resistance; Antimicrobial resistance surveillance; Forcibly displace persons; Drug resistant pathogens; Arctic medicine. Tropical medicine; RC955-962; Arctic; Human health
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40794-023-00198-6; https://doaj.org/article/d554205290b5435e803d4502ed980f11

Abstract Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to human health as 4.95 million deaths were associated with bacterial AMR in 2019 and is projected to reach 10 million by 2050. To mitigate AMR, surveillance is an essential tool for determining the burden of AMR and providing the necessary information for its control. However, the global AMR surveillance is inadequate and particularly limited among forcibly displaced persons (FDPs) despite having higher risks of harboring these pathogens. Predisposing factors among this group include poor living conditions, limited access to treatment and diagnostic tests, and inadequate trained health professionals in refugee camps. Strengthening AMR surveillance among FDPs would address the identified gaps and facilitate formulation and implementation of evidence-based policies on AMR control and prevention response. This article provides information on the growing population of FDPs, factors contributing to the AMR burden and AMR surveillance gaps in FDPs and highlighted recommendations for control.