The Alliance for the Prudent Use of Antibiotics (APUA) was founded in 1981, at a time where almost nobody thought about AMR. Except a few people. An interview with Dr. Levy Stuart, founder of the organisation.
Mr. Stuart, APUA was founded more than 35 years ago, as a global nonprofit organization with the goals of improving antimicrobial use and containing antibiotic resistance worldwide. That was at a time where AMR wasn’t yet a big problem. Is it true to say that you were a pioneer in that field?
Yes.
What induced you to found APUA? The results from your study in 1975 and the logical conclusion that if we continue to overuse antibiotics, AMR could be a big problem in the future?
APUA was founded based on our concerns about multidrug resistance developing initially in disadvantaged countries. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics have contributed to AMR globally and will continue to do so in the future, unless we provide education and respect for these drugs.
In which projects APUA currently is involved?
APUA is currently involved in the evaluation and education of multidrug resistance globally. Multidrug resistance is not just a problem in poor countries. All countries are now subject to this threatening phenomenon.
Which role APUA plays today – 35 years after its foundation?
APUA’s role is promoting education and public awareness of antibiotic resistance. Through its website and news publications, The APUA Highlights & the APUA Newsletter, APUA supports legislation for expanded surveillance and improved antibiotic stewardship. We aim to publicize and support efforts that will reduce antibiotic abuse and overuse in hospitals, the community and in agriculture.
The Semmelweis Foundation will have its second big CEE conference on hospital hygiene and patient safety (March 2017) in Budapest, capital city of Semmelweis’ home country. What do you associate with him?
We associate “Semmelweis” with being a pioneer in hygiene.
