Antimicrobial Resistance in Community-Acquired Infections: A Review of Global Epidemiological Trends and Public Health Implications

This review examines antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in community-acquired infections (CAIs), highlighting that AMR is no longer confined to hospitals but increasingly affects public and community settings. It analyses the causes of CAIs, the emergence of resistance mechanisms in common pathogens, and regional differences in resistance patterns, with particular focus on multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and pandrug-resistant (PDR) bacteria. The review also explores key socioeconomic drivers such as agricultural practices, environmental pollution, over-the-counter antibiotic access, and antibiotic overuse. It evaluates national and international responses within a One Health framework, including community-level interventions and emerging diagnostic and therapeutic innovations. Overall, it advocates for a coordinated, multi-sectoral strategy combining surveillance, stewardship, education, and innovation to curb AMR and safeguard the effectiveness of future antimicrobial therapies.