Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global threat to healthcare and society. Recent estimates indicate that five million people die each year from antibacterial resistant infections, with a projected cumulative impact on the global economy of $100 trillion by 2050. At the University of Exeter, we recognise the global scale of this threat and are committed to finding solutions through our comprehensive One Health approach.
As recognised by the World Health Organization in their report, ‘World leaders and experts call for action to protect the environment from antimicrobial pollution’, a One Health approach is crucial. We are uniting experts from traditionally disparate disciplines - social scientists, humanities specialists, microbiologists, mathematicians – to collaborate on finding innovative solutions to one of the greatest health challenges of our time.
With a strong and diverse network of AMR researchers, our research spans from fundamental lab work, focusing on reducing antibiotic resistance, developing alternative treatments, understanding environmental spread, and tackling the major threat of antifungal resistance in plants and humans, to influencing global policies and behaviours. This includes shaping public understanding, clinician prescribing practices, political action, and addressing the complex interactions of global communities.
Find out more about the global impact of Exeter’s research into antimicrobial resistance:
- A united fight against AMR: Uniting experts through the GW4 AMR Alliance to drive meaningful change in policy and practice.
- The hidden threat in our waters: Exposing the alarming presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in our natural environment.
- The rise of deadly fungi: Combating the devastating impact of fungal diseases, an often-overlooked threat.
- Beyond the era of antibiotics: Pioneering the search for alternative treatments in the face of increasing resistance.
