Smog, characterized by the combination of smoke and fog, has emerged as a significant environmental and public health challenge which is affecting urban areas worldwide. It poses immediate harmful effects to human health and also revealed deeper and long-term consequences for antibiotic resistance.
Smog and AMR
Smog accelerates Antibiotic Resistance
Smog causes respiratory distress and cardiovascular problems as number of cases are reported from smog affected areas worldwide. A new evidence suggests a surprising link between smog and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). A study published on Aug 3, 2024 reported that the phenomenon of antibiotic resistance is facilitated by particulate matter (PM) within smog, which acts as a vehicle for resistant microorganisms and resistant genes.
Particulate Matter: A Conduit for Resistance
This study revealed that Particulate matter, particularly PM2.5 and PM10, can penetrate deeply into the respiratory system which creates conditions that favor bacterial survival and growth, potentially leading to antibiotic resistance. The PM not only triggers inflammation and suppresses the immune system but also transports antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) into the lungs, promoting resistance in respiratory tract infections.
Microbial eDNA and Environmental Contaminants
Microbial extracellular DNA (eDNA) plays a critical role in this process. Along with particulate matter eDNA also plays a significant role in determining the composition and diversity of microbiota linked to smog. This smog influenced microbiota includes bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which can harbor and spread ARGs. The presence of these genetic elements within smog suggests a mechanism by which AMR can spread more rapidly across different environments.
The Implications for Public Health
Smog and AMR are interlinked in collectively play a role in emergence of AMR which highlights an urgent need to address the serious and hidden hazards of air pollution. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the mechanisms through which smog contributes in spread of antibiotic resistance and develop strategies to combat these looming threats. The rise in antibiotic resistance necessitates immediate plan of action to mitigate the effects of smog on public health and the environment.
Strategies for Mitigation
Due the explosive increase in antibiotic resistance and the pervasive nature of smog, comprehensive and practical strategies must be developed to reduce smog exposure and limit its ability to spread antibiotic resistance. These strategies could include:
- Strengthening Air Quality Regulations: Implementing stricter controls on pollutants contributing in smog formation.
- Promoting Public Awareness: Raising public awareness among communities about the health risks associated with smog and rising threat of AMR.
- Advancing Research: Investing in research and development to develop better understanding about relationship between smog, PM, and AMR.
- Enhancing Surveillance and Monitoring: Improving air quality surveillance and AMR surveillance to identify trends and inform policy decisions.
Conclusion
The relationship between smog and antibiotic resistance represents a complex challenge requiring multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary approaches and strong policy decisions by stakeholders. By understanding and addressing these connections, we can protect public health and mitigate antibiotic resistance.
For more insights on the topic, you can access the full study by Khan, M.I., Amin, A., Khan, M.T., et al. in Aerobiologia (2024) here.