Superbugs Could Cause Over 39 Million Deaths by 2050, Study Warns

A new global analysis predicts that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) will claim more than 39 million lives by 2050, with older populations particularly vulnerable. Conducted by the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (Gram) Project and published in The Lancet, the study forecasts 1.91 million deaths annually from AMR by mid-century, up from 1.14 million in 2021. AMR will contribute to over 8 million deaths annually by 2050.

While improvements in vaccines and hygiene are reducing AMR-related deaths among young children, the opposite trend is seen in older adults. Fatalities among those over 70 are expected to rise 146%, with infections often stemming from hospital care and chronic conditions.

The study’s lead author, Dr. Mohsen Naghavi of the University of Washington, emphasized the growing global health threat of AMR. “Increasing resistance to antimicrobial medicines is a major cause for concern,” he said.

World leaders are set to discuss the AMR crisis at the UN General Assembly this month, with hopes for a commitment to reduce AMR deaths by 10% by 2030.