Challenges regarding the provision of antibiotics via the informal sector across low- and middle-income countries and potential ways forward

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health threat in view of its impact on morbidity, mortality and costs. AMR rates are highest in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including among children, driven by high rates of inappropriate prescribing and dispensing of antibiotics. By 2050 unless addressed, it is envisaged that there will be 1·91 million deaths attributable to AMR, and 8·22 million deaths associated with AMR, with the greatest burden among African and Asian countries. The estimate for sub-Saharan Africa is 4.1 million AMR-related deaths annually by 2050 unless urgent activities are undertaken.