The more antibiotics that are used, the less effective they become as resistant bacteria develop to counteract their effects. This gives rise to anti-microbial resistance (AMR), caused by these resistant bacteria. According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control AMR is responsible for 25,000 deaths a year across the EU and already has an economic burden of €1.5bn.

Whilst recognising that antibiotics are an important part of modern medicine, the environmental and health risks associated with the over-prescription of antibiotics, pollution from pharmaceutical production, and the improper disposal of unused antibiotics cannot be ignored. HCWH Europe works to raise awareness about the health and environmental consequences of AMR, and promote ways to constrain this growing problem.

Learn more with our infographic: