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Earlier this year, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) convened to discuss antimicrobial resistance and the health crisis it creates. At the daylong meeting, heads of state committed to join forces in an effort to address the causes of antimicrobial resistance, particularly in the human health, animal health and agriculture sectors.

Meghan May, Ph.D., associate professor of biomedical sciences at the 51Ʒ�� College of Osteopathic Medicine, discussed the conference's findings in a piece for Lifezette.

One major reason for the crisis is the inappropriate use of antibiotics, particularly overseas. May writes that “in many parts of the world, antibiotics that may require a prescription are sold over the counter. This virtually guarantees they will be overused.”

A second cause is environmental contamination, primarily caused by industrial runoff from medical manufacturers in countries with lax regulations, as well as agricultural waste in developed countries.

May writes that the third, and arguably most important point, is the lack of access to health services. “The most effective way to reduce antimicrobial use is to prevent the need for it,” she states. “This involves routine vaccinations, access to sensitive laboratory testing, sterile instruments and potable water.”

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