We are in the midst of a global public health threat. Without intervention, it is projected that 10 million lives will be lost each year by 2050 – that’s more people than currently die from cancer, measles and diabetes combined.1
Pfizer is deeply committed to working closely with the public health community and governments to take steps to tackle AMR. Two key reports from the Access to Medicines Foundation and AMR Industry Alliance were recently published to update on progress made by the pharmaceutical industry. The 2020 Benchmark report in particular recognizes Pfizer as one of the top two leading large research and development-based pharmaceutical companies in the infectious disease market. In fact, our leadership is growing, as recognized by a 9% increase in our overall score compared to the 2018 Benchmark report.
Read the publications below for more information on Pfizer’s investments in antimicrobial stewardship, our ATLAS Surveillance program, and our vaccines pipeline:
THE THREAT OF ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an increasingly serious threat that occurs when pathogens become resistant to the effects of antimicrobial medicines. Alarmingly, it can affect anyone, of any age, in any country.
AMR currently causes 700,000 deaths every year1 and without effective antimicrobials, infections like pneumonia or routine surgeries like cesarean sections and joint replacements are more likely to be fatal.
Every day antimicrobial medicines are used to treat and prevent a range of infections, including those caused by bacteria (antibiotics), viruses (vaccines and antivirals), fungi (antifungals) and parasites (e.g. antimalarials). But, a number of difficult-to-treat disease pathogens – often referred to as “superbugs” – are evolving to become resistant to these medicines.
HOW TO HELP CURB AMR
Many people are completely unaware of AMR and the danger it poses. Fortunately, there are steps we can all take to spread awareness and help stop superbugs.
Reducing the spread of AMR isn’t just the responsibility of doctors, industry or governments. This threat can affect anyone and is everyone’s responsibility.
WHAT STEPS CAN WE ALL TAKE?
- Wash your hands regularly.
- Only take antibiotics and antifungals when needed and as directed – that includes not missing doses and finishing the entire course to reduce the risk of microbes becoming resistant.
- Keep up to date with recommended vaccinations, which help to reduce the risk of catching certain infections in the first place.
1 Review on Antimicrobial Resistance. Tackling drug-resistant infections globally: final report and recommendations. May 2016. Available at:
