Addressing antimicrobial resistance in coastal Areas: Understanding the factors and implementing solutions

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a growing threat to both human and animal health, with coastal environments acting as important reservoirs and transmission pathways. Drivers such as sewage discharge, aquaculture, agricultural runoff, bacterial dispersal, climate change, and chemical pollutants contribute to the presence and spread of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in coastal and estuarine waters. Evidence shows regional variation in antibiotic and ARG prevalence, underscoring risks to public health and ecosystem integrity. The study emphasizes that mitigating AMR in coastal waters requires urgent, coordinated, and long-term action through integrated, cross-sectoral strategies to curb spread, safeguard health, and protect coastal ecosystems.