Antibiotics: What Everyone Needs to Know (R)

Antibiotics: What Everyone Needs to Know® examines the personal and societal implications of our planet's most important and overused medications, including how they are used and overused in humans, plants, and livestock, the consequences of overuse, and the difficult decisions ahead related to medical care and the food system.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 408 pages
Publication date: 22 August 2019
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Antibiotics have become a ubiquitous part of modern medicine, hailed as lifesavers and essential tools in the fight against infectious diseases. However, their effectiveness is gradually declining, raising concerns about the future of healthcare and the potential emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In Antibiotics: What Everyone Needs to Know®, a comprehensive examination of this pressing issue, author and medical expert Dr. Michael Kompas delves into the complex world of antibiotics, exploring their uses, effects, and the looming crisis they pose.

The book begins by examining the widespread use of antibiotics in humans, plants, and livestock. It sheds light on the ways in which these medications are overused, leading to the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. The consequences of this overuse are far-reaching, as it can render existing antibiotics ineffective, making it difficult to treat infections effectively.

One of the key themes of the book is the globalized nature of the world, which contributes to the rapid spread of antibiotic resistance. The interconnectedness of countries and the ease of travel and trade enable the rapid transmission of bacteria, making it challenging to control the spread of antibiotic-resistant strains.

Another important aspect of the book is the collateral damage caused by antibiotic use. While antibiotics are intended to treat infections and save lives, they can also have unintended consequences, including side effects, allergic reactions, and the disruption of the natural bacterial flora in the body. These side effects can be severe and may lead to further health complications.

The book also addresses the difficult decisions that individuals and society face related to medical care and the food system. It emphasizes the need for responsible antibiotic use, including proper prescribing, infection prevention, and hygiene practices. It also calls for investment in research and development of new antibiotics to address emerging threats and prevent the further decline of antibiotic effectiveness.

Antibiotics: What Everyone Needs to Know® is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of antibiotics and the challenges they pose to modern medicine. It is grounded in the latest scientific research and translated for general readers, making it accessible and informative. The book offers a clear-eyed overview of where we are in the fight against antibiotic resistance and what the future holds. By raising awareness and promoting responsible antibiotic use, we can work towards preserving the effectiveness of these life-saving medications and ensuring a healthier and more secure future for ourselves and future generations.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 209 x 144 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190663407