Investigating the evolution and predicting the future outlook of antimicrobial resistance in sub-saharan Africa using phenotypic data for Klebsiella pneumoniae: a 12-year analysis

BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This study aimed to investigate the evolution and predict the future outlook of AMR in SSA over a 12-year period. By analysing the trends and patterns of AMR, the study sought to enhance our understanding of this pressing issue in the region and provide valuable insights for effective interventions and control measures to mitigate the impact of AMR on public health in SSA. RESULTS: The study found that general medicine patients had the highest proportion of samples with AMR. Different types of samples showed varying levels of AMR. Across the studied locations, the highest resistance was consistently observed against ceftaroline (ranging from 68 to 84%), while the lowest resistance was consistently observed against ceftazidime avibactam, imipenem, meropenem, and meropenem vaborbactam (ranging from 92 to 93%). Notably, the predictive analysis showed a significant increasing trend in resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanate, cefepime, ceftazidime, ceftaroline, imipenem, meropenem, piperacillin-tazobactam, and aztreonam over time. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest the need for coordinated efforts and interventions to control and prevent the spread of AMR in SSA. Targeted surveillance based on local resistance patterns, sample types, and patient populations is crucial for effective monitoring and control of AMR. The study also highlights the urgent need for action, including judicious use of antibiotics and the development of alternative treatment options to combat the growing problem of AMR in SSA.