Washington, D.C., 13 July 2022 (PAHO) - As part of the work to contain antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the countries of the Region of the Americas are making progress in strengthening their systems for evaluating the consumption and use of antimicrobials at both the national and hospital levels. Within the framework of "Working together to combat antimicrobial resistance"—a project supported by the European Union—the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) participated in the development of two publications in scientific journals that reflect countries' efforts to contain AMR through the rational use of antimicrobials.
Point prevalence survey of antimicrobial use in 33 hospitals in Latin American countries
This article presents the results of point prevalence surveys of antimicrobial use in hospitals, involving more than 5,000 patients hospitalized in 33 hospitals in five countries (Cuba, El Salvador, Mexico, Paraguay, and Peru), as a starting point to implement or strengthen Antimicrobial Stewardship programs on antimicrobials.
Point prevalence survey of antibiotic use in hospitals in Latin American countries. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, Volume 77, Issue 3, March 2022, Pages 807–815.
Consumption of antimicrobials in Latin American countries: First steps on a long road
This article shows the progress made by six Latin American countries (Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Paraguay, and Peru) in monitoring national antimicrobial consumption. The study provides a standardized approach to building a national surveillance system of the volume of antimicrobials consumed or acquired. These steps will lead to Latin America being included among the regions of the world that have periodic, regular, quality data on the consumption of antimicrobials.
Antimicrobial Consumption in Latin American Countries: First Steps of a Long Road Ahead. Journal of Primary Care & Community Health. January 2022.
