The article title is a pretty straightforward summary of what the article is about. It’s about experts warning that use of antibiotics has caused an increase in the severity of COPD and infections.
The Rise of COPD
The rise of COPD is linked to the increase in prescription antibiotic use. This antibiotic overuse has led to the development of bacteria; that are resistant to drugs like aminoglycosides and macrolides, which are three of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics. The rise in this type of bacteria can be attributed to a decrease in natural bacterial diversity in our bodies.
COPD is an urgent public health concern; that is projected to triple in developing countries and double in developed countries by 2050; according to the World Health Organization. Currently, COPD is classified as a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); defined by a reduction in forced expiratory volume of air or maximal breathing capacity of less than 70 percent.
What caused the rise in third-wave infections?
The rise of antibiotic-resistant pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA); vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE); and extended spectrum beta lactamases have led to a change in the way; that doctors are treating common conditions like colds and the flu. Patients with these types of symptoms are now prescribed antibiotics; which don’t always clear up the infection and can lead to long-term complications.
The rise of third-wave infections, also known as C. difficile infections, began in the mid-20th century; and was followed by a dramatic increase of deaths from the infection. Researchers believe that this occurred because of the overuse of antibiotics by healthcare providers and patients.
Third-Wave Antibiotics Contributed to Rising Rate of COPD Infections
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a 48% increase in COPD diagnoses over the last decade. The rise is attributed to a surge in antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the use of powerful antibiotics such as third generation cephalosporins, which are often prescribed for respiratory conditions. It is estimated that 60 million prescriptions were written for these types of antibiotics in 2015 alone with many patients receiving multiple prescriptions.
The World Health Organization estimates that the use of third-wave antibiotics has contributed to a 100% increase in lung infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the last decade, according to a recent study. This is primarily because these drugs are generally not effective at fighting MRSA infections.
Conclusion
The benefits of antibiotics are widely recognized. The problem is that the bacteria can adapt to them, which has led to a rise in antibiotic resistance. Now, people are beginning to realize that antibiotics also cause other health problems, like the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).