Antimicrobial resistance in sexually transmitted infections

Objective — to summarize data on the challenges of a medical and social nature regarding antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), ways to overcome them and improve further research in this direction. Materials and methods. The bibliosemantic research method was used in the article. The research materials were foreign and Ukrainian scientific publications related to the meta­analysis of studies on the problem of AMR in STIs, as well as international and Ukrainian national regulatory and legal frameworks. A systematic approach was used to collect and analyze scientific publications; in particular, search queries were formulated using the following keywords: «antimicrobial resistance», «sexually transmitted infections», «STIs», «antimicrobial resistance». The search was carried out in the scientometric databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science. Based on the analysis of scientific sources and regulatory acts, the main medical and social aspects of overcoming the problem of AMR in STIs were systematized and described. Results and discussion. A summary of a number of studies in the format of meta­analysis, conducted on materials from patient contingents from all continents, and an analysis of the international regulatory framework indicate a significant increase in the socio­medical importance of the problem of AMR in the field of STI treatment. To overcome this problem, stakeholders are involved at the international, national and local levels. In particular, Updated WHO recommendations for the treatment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Treponema pallidum (syphilis) and new recommendations on syphilis testing and partner services, released in July 2024, recommend that national or local data on AMR, if available, be used to determine the choice of medicine. The Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System has been formed, to which Ukraine has joined. The State Strategy for Combating Antimicrobial Resistance for the period up to 2030 has been approved. It’s key areas include strengthening the infection control system in healthcare facilities, increasing the capacity of bacteriological laboratories, implementing a surveillance system for AMR pathogens and the consumption of antimicrobial drugs, strengthening measures to ensure animal welfare, veterinary­sanitary and epizootic welfare in the context of combating the spread of AMR pathogens, raising awareness among the population, medical and veterinary workers on the prevention of infections and combating the spread of AMR pathogens, strengthening human resources and conducting scientific research. Continuous work on state quality control of antibacterial drugs is carried out by the State Service of Ukraine on Medicines and Drug Control, which, in case of detection of inadequate quality of drug batches, issues an order to prohibit their circulation. Conclusions. AMR in the field of STIs threatens the effectiveness of treatment, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine, which has complicated access to medical care. The implementation of modern protocols and adaptation to EU standards is important. Overcoming AMR is a strategic task that requires investment in personnel, laboratories, surveillance and international cooperation on the path to European integration.