Ghana Joins the Global Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has sounded the alarm on the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), emphasizing the need for collective action to safeguard the efficacy of antimicrobial agents and protect future generations. As part of World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024, the PSGH is urging pharmacists, healthcare professionals, educators, and the media to work together to combat AMR.

*The Challenge of AMR*

AMR occurs when microorganisms evolve to resist medicines, leading to prolonged illnesses, increased mortality, and rising healthcare costs. In Ghana, misuse and overuse of antimicrobials, inadequate infection prevention, and poor sanitation contribute to the spread of drug-resistant infections, threatening decades of progress in healthcare delivery. The consequences of AMR transcend health, affecting food security, economic stability, and development.

*A Three-Pronged Approach*

The PSGH is committed to combating AMR through education, advocacy, and immediate action. The organization is enhancing public understanding of AMR through targeted awareness campaigns and urging pharmacists and healthcare professionals to promote rational medicine use. It is also advocating for policy changes, including enforcing regulations on antimicrobial use and strengthening surveillance systems. Furthermore, the PSGH encourages all stakeholders to adopt the One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

*Common Conditions that Lead to Antimicrobial Abuse*

The PSGH highlights common conditions that often lead to unnecessary antibiotic use, such as:

– *Flu or Cold*: Most cases are viral and do not require antibiotics. Only over-the-counter (OTC) medications are needed to minimize symptoms.

– *Coughs*: Most coughs are self-limiting and do not require antibiotics. Cough mixtures or lozenges can be useful in most cases.

– *Sore Throats*: FDA-approved lozenges are sufficient for most cases.

– *Diarrheal Diseases*: Oral rehydration salts and Zinc tablets are effective in treating most cases without antibiotics.

– *Malaria*: Testing is essential before taking malaria medication to avoid unnecessary antimalarial use.

*PSGH’s Commitment*

The PSGH is committed to capacity building, training pharmacists in antimicrobial stewardship practices, and community engagement, promoting good hygiene, vaccination, and responsible medicine use. The organization is also partnering with government agencies, international organizations, and civil society to achieve shared goals in AMR containment.

*A Collaborative Effort*

The PSGH is not alone in this fight. The Pharmacy Council Ghana, led by Registrar Dr. Daniel Amaning Danquah, is also working to promote public health and safety. The Council is responsible for ensuring competent pharmaceutical care providers and has updated its guidelines on new pharmacy applications to reflect FDA guidelines ¹.

*A Call to Action*

The PSGH urges everyone to educate themselves and others, advocate for stronger policies, and take decisive action to combat AMR. Success requires collective responsibility, and together, we can safeguard the efficacy of antimicrobials, protect lives, and secure the future of healthcare in Ghana and beyond.

As Pharm. Dr. Samuel Kow Donkoh, President of the PSGH, emphasizes, “The time to act is now. Let us all educate ourselves and others, advocate for stronger policies, and take decisive action to combat antimicrobial resistance.”