Gender Based Antibiotic Resistance

Why in news?

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Turku, Finland, analysed 14,600+ gut genomes and gave insights into how gender affects antibiotic resistance.

• Antibiotic Resistance – Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve to survive antibiotics that would normally kill them.
• It is a major global health challenge, projected to cause over 39 million deaths in the next 25 years.

Key Findings

• Gender differences – The study found that antibiotic resistance trends differ by gender, particularly in adulthood.
• These differences may arise due to lifestyle, biological, or healthcare-related factors.
• HIC vs. LMIC Trends – In High-Income Countries (HICs): Women had more antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs).
• In Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs): Men had more ARGs.
• Higher ARG load in women (HICs) – On average, women in HICs had a 9% higher ARG load than men.
• They also showed slightly more diversity in resistant genes in the gut microbiome.
• Possible reasons for gender disparity – Women may be more exposed to antibiotics, resistant bacteria, or are frequent carriers of such bacteria.
• Differences may also stem from healthcare-seeking behaviour, biological makeup, or microbiome composition.
• Effect on age – The number and diversity of ARGs were highest in infants and the elderly.
• Role of Antibiotic usage – High antibiotic usage was directly associated with higher resistance gene load and greater diversity.
• This was especially noticeable in regions with poor hygiene and sanitation.
• Importance of the study – Highlights the need for gender-sensitive public health interventions.
• Helps design equitable antibiotic policies and personalized treatments for different populations.
• It aligns with global efforts to tackle antibiotic resistance through precision health strategies.

Reference

The Hindu| Gender Based Antibiotic Resistance