Antibiotic resistance is one of the most serious medical problems of our time, actively discussed by scientists and international organizations. It refers to the ability of bacteria to survive even after the use of antibiotics that were previously effective in killing them. According to the World Health Organization, antibacterial resistance is already a global threat to humanity. More than a million people die each year from infections caused by resistant bacteria, and the scale of the problem continues to grow.

The GLASS global monitoring system reports that the prevalence of antibiotic resistance has increased significantly worldwide in recent years. Particularly dangerous is the emergence of so-called "superbugs"—microorganisms resistant even to carbapenems, considered "antibiotics of last resort." If humanity doesn't change its approach to antibiotic use, by mid-century, mortality from previously easily treatable infections could exceed mortality from cancer.

Some of the most problematic regions for antibiotic resistance remain countries where antibiotics have long been available over the counter. This is precisely the situation that existed in Ukraine for many years. Uncontrolled self-medication, the use of antibiotics for viral infections, and the habit of discontinuing treatment immediately after feeling better created ideal conditions for the development of resistant bacteria.

An additional problem was the widespread use of antibiotics in livestock farming. In many countries, the drugs were used not only to treat animals but also to promote growth. People also come into contact with antibacterial residues through food, which contributes to the spread of resistance.

The problem is particularly acute for Ukraine. Experts estimate that the rate of antibiotic resistance in hospital-acquired infections in our country significantly exceeds the European average. This means that standard antibiotics, once considered effective, are increasingly ineffective. Doctors are forced to use more toxic and expensive medications, which can have serious side effects on the liver and kidneys.

The war further complicated the situation. The large number of wounds, difficult treatment conditions, the overburdened medical system, and the spread of hospital-acquired infections created additional risks of the spread of resistant bacteria. Medical professionals increasingly encounter strains for which there are few effective treatments left.

In recent years, Ukraine has begun taking steps to combat the problem. In 2022, electronic prescriptions for antibiotics for humans were introduced, which was intended to curb uncontrolled self-medication. Later, restrictions on the advertising of some over-the-counter medications came into effect. Also, starting in 2026, electronic veterinary prescriptions will be introduced, which should help control the use of antibiotics in livestock.

At the same time, the government has appealed to international pharmaceutical companies to expand Ukraine's access to the latest antibacterial drugs needed to combat particularly dangerous infections. Healthcare facilities are also gradually adopting bacterial resistance monitoring systems, which will allow for faster detection of outbreaks of hospital-acquired infections.

Experts note that there is no quick fix. Antibiotic resistance has been developing for years, so overcoming its consequences will take a long time. However, monitoring antibiotic use, responsible drug use, the development of modern diagnostics, and public education remain key tools in the fight against one of the greatest threats to modern medicine.