Antimicrobial resistance in Africa: A retrospective analysis of data from 14 countries, 2016–2019

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health issue, but the lack of national-level data in African countries hinders understanding its scale and contributing factors. A study analyzed retrospective AMR data from 14 African countries, revealing high variability in AMR prevalence across countries. The study found significant variations in AMR prevalence estimates in culture-positive samples across countries, regions, patient departments, and specimen sources. Male sex, ages above 65, and inpatient departments were associated with higher AMR prevalence among culture-positive samples. The study also found gaps in AST practices and inadequate digital infrastructures for data collection and reporting, indicating the need for large-scale investments to expand healthcare access and strengthen bacteriology laboratory capacities.