kathimerini.gr
High Antibiotic Resistance in Greece Threatens Public Health
A report by the ECDC and EFSA reveals high antibiotic resistance in Greece, particularly in Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter bacteria affecting both humans and animals, due to overuse of antibiotics in medicine and agriculture, inadequate hygiene, and environmental pollution; a situation projected to worsen by 2050 unless significant changes are implemented.
- What is the extent of antibiotic resistance in Greece, and what are its immediate consequences for public health?
- In Greece, resistance to common antibiotics in Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter bacteria is high, reaching 92.6% in E. coli in fattening pigs and 95% in poultry. This surpasses many EU countries and contributes to increased rates of gastrointestinal infections.
- What factors contribute to the high levels of antibiotic resistance in Greece's livestock sector, and how do these practices impact both animal and human health?
- This antibiotic resistance stems from extensive antibiotic use in human and veterinary medicine, coupled with inadequate hygiene practices, inappropriate farming methods (using antibiotics for growth or disease prevention in healthy animals), and environmental pollution by antibiotic residues. These factors create a breeding ground for resistant strains.
- Considering the ineffectiveness of the previous National Action Plan, what systemic changes are necessary to combat rising antibiotic resistance in Greece and prevent future health crises?
- Unless significant changes are made, Greece is projected to have over 30 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants due to antibiotic resistance by 2050. The consequences include prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and limited treatment options for both humans and animals, along with environmental ecosystem disruption. The ineffectiveness of the 2019-2023 National Action Plan due to the pandemic highlights the need for immediate action.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the severity of antibiotic resistance in Greece, particularly compared to other EU countries. The use of statistics on high resistance rates and rankings within the EU highlights the problem's magnitude. While this is factually accurate, the repeated focus might unintentionally alarm readers, potentially overshadowing the nuance of the situation and potential solutions. The headline, if included, would likely reinforce this emphasis on negative aspects.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and factual, relying on statistical data and expert quotes. However, phrases like "κρούουν τον κώδωνα του κινδύνου" (sound the alarm) and descriptions of resistance levels as 'high' or 'alarming' introduce a slightly sensational tone. More neutral alternatives could include 'report high rates of resistance' or 'note significant concern regarding'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the high levels of antibiotic resistance in Greece, but it omits discussion of specific government policies or initiatives implemented to address the issue beyond mentioning an inactive national action plan. It also doesn't explore potential socio-economic factors contributing to the problem, such as access to healthcare or farming practices influenced by economic pressures. While acknowledging space limitations, these omissions prevent a full understanding of the multifaceted nature of the problem.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't present a false dichotomy, but it could benefit from exploring the complexities of antibiotic resistance beyond the simple framing of 'irresponsible use' versus 'effective solutions'. The causes are multifaceted and involve economic, social, and environmental factors, beyond the easily identifiable factors highlighted.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the high levels of antibiotic resistance in Greece, leading to increased infections and mortality. This directly impacts Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. The high rates of antibiotic resistance threaten this goal by increasing the risk of untreatable infections, leading to prolonged illness, higher healthcare costs, and increased mortality.