A multi-sectoral approach to antimicrobial resistance containment: Insights from One Health

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a serious threat to global public health. By 2050, AMR is estimated to cause 1.91 million deaths annually, with related mortality reaching 8.22 million. The challenges posed by AMR extend beyond the healthcare system to include animal health and environmental factors such as livestock farming, urbanization, and climate change. The “One Health” approach, an interdisciplinary and cross-regional collaborative strategy, integrates the management of human, animal, and environmental health. It is considered a crucial framework for addressing complex public health challenges and providing both scientific and preventive strategies to combat AMR. From October 12 to 13, 2024, the Second One Health Conference of Antimicrobial Resistance Containment was successfully held in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, under the theme “Hand in Hand with One Health to Contain AMR”. The conference brought together experts from various fields to engage in in-depth discussions on AMR control, reaching a consensus to take action towards advancing the global health community. This conference strengthened multi-sectoral collaboration, promoted cross-departmental and cross-national cooperation, enhanced public awareness of AMR, explored control mechanisms, and provided both theoretical and practical guidance for mitigating AMR. It also called for increased investment and research and development efforts on AMR containment.