ANALYSIS OF ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIBING PRACTICES IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE SETTINGS. PART I

Abstract

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to global health, undermining the effectiveness of antibiotics in treating infectious diseases. The increasing prevalence of AMR is driven by various factors, including environmental, drug-related, patient-related, and physician-related causes. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics contribute to the development of resistant bacterial strains, leading to higher morbidity and mortality rates. Objective: This review aims to analyze antibiotic prescribing practices in primary healthcare settings, identify key contributors to AMR, and propose strategies for improving antibiotic stewardship to mitigate resistance. Search Strategy: A systematic literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed sources from medical and public health databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and EBSCO, WHO reports, epidemiological studies, and recent research on AMR trends and antibiotic prescription behaviors. The focus was on global trends with a specific emphasis on Central Asia, including Kazakhstan and neighboring countries. Results: The review identified multiple factors contributing to AMR, including inappropriate prescriptions, weak regulatory frameworks, and socioeconomic conditions. Studies indicate that developing countries, particularly in Asia and Africa, experience higher rates of AMR due to poor healthcare policies and excessive antibiotic use in agriculture. In Kazakhstan, AMR was associated with approximately 2,400 deaths in 2019, ranking the country 95th in AMR-related mortality worldwide. The review also highlighted disparities in antibiotic stewardship practices across different regions, with European countries demonstrating lower resistance rates due to stricter regulations. Conclusion: AMR remains a critical global health issue, exacerbated by inadequate prescription practices and weak enforcement of antibiotic regulations. Addressing this challenge requires coordinated international efforts, including improved antibiotic stewardship, enhanced surveillance systems, and stricter policies on antibiotic use. Raising awareness among healthcare professionals and the general population is essential to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.