Antibiotic Apocalypse: Are We Running Out of Cures | Angelique Tudor | TEDxDulwich College Singapore

The Crisis of Antibiotic Resistance - The rise of antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat, potentially leading to a world where common infections become deadly [1] - The World Health Organization has identified antibiotic resistance as one of the greatest threats to global health [3] - Currently, 1.27 million deaths per year are directly attributed to antibiotic-resistant infections [4] - Projections indicate that if no action is taken, this number could rise to 10 million per year by 2050, surpassing cancer as a leading cause of death [4] Causes and Contributing Factors - Misuse and overuse of antibiotics, including patients not completing prescribed courses and doctors overprescribing for viral infections, contribute to resistance [6] - The routine addition of antibiotics to animal feed in agricultural industries creates breeding grounds for resistant bacteria, which can then spread to humans [6][7] - A lack of financial incentives has led pharmaceutical companies to slow antibiotic development [3][7] Potential Solutions and Actions - Responsible antibiotic use, including taking them only when prescribed and completing the full course, is crucial [8] - Stricter regulations on antibiotic use in medicine and farming are needed [8] - Increased investment from governments and the private sector in research and development of new antibiotics is essential [9]