Untangling causal drivers of global AMR prevalence

Antimicrobial resistance, or AMR, is often called a “silent pandemic”—and for good reason. It’s quietly spreading across the globe, affecting people in every country, no matter how rich or developed. If we don’t act now, common infections could become deadly again, and routine medical procedures could carry serious risks.
To stop AMR from getting worse, we need to understand what’s causing it. Some factors directly lead to more resistance—like overusing antibiotics or poor sanitation. Others only make a difference when combined with other issues. We call these “indirect drivers.” By figuring out which causes are direct and which are indirect, governments and health organizations can make smarter decisions. Especially in places with fewer resources, it’s crucial to focus efforts where they’ll have the biggest impact—on the direct drivers.
This approach can improve public health, strengthen healthcare systems, and lead to better outcomes for patients everywhere. AMR may be silent, but our response doesn’t have to be. Understanding the problem is the first step toward solving it.