Alarming Rise of Antibiotic Resistance in Bangladesh Revealed by Jahangirnagar University Study
A recent study conducted by the Microbiology Department of Jahangirnagar University (JU) has revealed a startling level of antibiotic resistance among bacteria in natural environments across Bangladesh. According to the findings, 60-70% of bacteria in nature already show resistance to commonly used antibiotics, raising urgent concerns for public health.
Researchers presented the findings at a seminar titled “One Health Assessment of Emerging Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Bangladeshi Livestock, Feeds, and Manure” on Tuesday, emphasizing the urgent need to address this growing threat.
Study Overview and Methodology
The comprehensive study, led by JU’s Microbiology Department and funded by the Bangladesh Academy of Science and the United States Department of Agriculture, examined 240 cattle samples and 110 human daily samples. Researchers identified 225 bacterial strains with more than 30 genomes from cattle and 140 bacterial strains with over 30 genomes from human samples.
The bacteria were subjected to an Antibiotic Susceptibility Test using 20 antibiotics across nine different antibiotic groups. The results revealed alarming levels of resistance across the board.
High Resistance Rates and Last-Line Antibiotics Under Threat
The study found that roughly 60-70% of the bacteria were resistant to antibiotics. More concerning, even last-line antibiotics, including carbapenems, showed up to 90% resistance in some cases, particularly against colistin.
Using advanced RT-PCR techniques, the researchers also identified more than 19 antibiotic-resistant genes among the bacterial strains collected. This precise technology enabled rapid detection of resistant bacteria and their genes, allowing detailed analysis at the molecular level, including protein detection, mutation analysis, and microorganism identification.
Expert Insights on the Growing Threat
Prof. Salequl Islam, the project’s lead supervisor, emphasized that the patterns of resistance observed are closely linked to antibiotic usage. He noted that RT-PCR technology allowed the team to detect antibiotic-resistant bacteria and associated genes with high accuracy.
Dr. Sabrina Hossain, a postdoctoral fellow from the World Health Organization, highlighted the importance of understanding both the history of antibiotic use in cattle and the mechanisms by which resistance genes transfer between bacteria.
During the seminar, Dr. Qazi Salim Anwar, Head of Ad-Din Women’s Medical College, also spoke on the critical implications of these findings for public health policy and veterinary practices.
Implications for Public Health and Future Action
The study underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations on antibiotic use, particularly in livestock, and enhanced monitoring of resistance patterns in both humans and animals. As antibiotic-resistant bacteria continue to increase, comprehensive strategies are crucial to prevent the spread of these dangerous pathogens and safeguard public health in Bangladesh.
