𝐈𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

💡 Researchers investigated the spectrum of human behaviours that could be modified in order to slow the spread of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
 
📌 World Health Organisation has declared AMR one of its top global health priorities. It is the ability of bacteria, viruses, and fungi to subvert the drugs used to kill them, and results in infections that are unable to be cleared.

📌 This study helped identify twelve behaviours that, if undertaken by the public, would slow the spread of AMR. Beyond stewardship, changing our built and natural environment, uplifting the role of individuals and their behaviour along with medical solutions will help prevent AMR and the ensuing health threats.

📌 There are several behavioural aspects that, if undertaken by the masses, would greatly assist in a reduction of AMR, including several that go beyond altering the prescription and use of medicinal antibiotics. For example, engaged communities could avoid buying items that contain antibacterial agents, lobby governments for greater control of AMR use or ensure that unused antibiotic products are disposed of correctly.

📌 An Impact-likelihood model uses assessments of impact (the impact of the behaviour on the issue), likelihood of uptake (based on perceived ease) and current level of participation (the number of people already performing the behaviour). These tools align with the recommendation that AMR actions which are beneficial and doable are the best targeted

🔴 Researchers in this study explore the set of people that would be a suitable target for a behaviour change intervention and a suite of behaviours for each group. Following this, they identified specific behaviours that could be appropriate targets for intervention based on an application of the impact-likelihood matrix.

Link to the article: bit.ly/3J626dY

Published On: /06/2023