Coverage of policies to improve antimicrobial stewardship in human medicine in low and middle income countries: results from the Global Survey of Experts on Antimicrobial Resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health threat, with misuse being a key driver. A study of 352 surveys from 118 low and middle-income countries (LMICs) found that 67% of countries had a national action plan, 64% had legislative policies, 58% had training programs, and 10% had monitoring systems. 51% had targeted policies to limit antibiotic use, and 74% had prescription requirements. However, there are still significant gaps in implementation and enforcement. Increased national efforts in enforcement and monitoring of antibiotic use are urgently needed to reduce inappropriate use and slow AMR global spread.