BDA to support the dental profession in tackling antimicrobial resistance

shutterstock_141666325The British Dental Association (BDA) has taken action in the battle to combat antimicrobial resistance in dentistry.

The World Health Organization has identified antimicrobial resistance as a serious threat to public health worldwide.

The BDA is now working to present recommendations from an expert summit held at its London office recently for publication at its annual conference in May 2015.

It also calls on BDA members to become an ‘Antibiotic Guardian’ by taking the pledge to cut the use of antibiotics ahead of European Antibiotic Awareness Day on 18 November.

Dr Graham Stokes, chair of the BDA Health and Science Committee and one of the initiators of the summit, said: ‘The battle against antimicrobial resistance will require concerted action by individuals, agencies and governments.

‘And that is why the British Dental Association is stepping up.

‘Dentists are responsible for approximately 10% of all antibiotic prescriptions in the UK and evidence suggests that many patients could be treated more appropriately without antibiotics.

‘It is important we all work together to ensure that the right treatment is given at the right time, with the right funding.

‘We will offer some clear recommendations that can make a difference.

‘This is a problem facing the entire healthcare community, and we can all be part of the solution.

‘The pledge to become an Antibiotic Guardian next week is a chance for all practitioners to do their bit.’

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