P-2094. Climate Change, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Agricultural Practices: Perspectives from India's Public Health Frontlines

TL;DR

Healthcare providers in India recognize climate change's role in antimicrobial resistance and suggest community education to address these challenges.

Contribution

New insights from last-mile healthcare providers on climate change's impact on antimicrobial resistance and sustainable practices in rural and urban India.

Findings

97% of respondents linked climate change to antimicrobial resistance and agricultural antibiotic use.

HCPs emphasized the need for community education and infographics to raise awareness on planetary health and sustainable farming.

Healthcare workers reported negative health effects from climate change, especially in lower socioeconomic groups.

Abstract

Last-mile healthcare providers (HCPs) are crucial in delivering essential services to rural populations, connecting remote communities to healthcare systems. This study examines HCP perspectives on the impact of climate change on vulnerable populations and identifies opportunities for developing strategies to address these challenges.

A five-question survey was distributed among 71 Last-Mile Health Care Providers across six Primary Health Care Centers (PHCs) in Karnataka, India. Three of these PHCs were located in rural areas, while the other three were situated in urban areas. The survey addressed topics related to climate change, infection control, and the use of antimicrobials, pesticides, and antifungals in farming.

Among the respondents, 87% were female, averaging 39 years of experience. Of these, 56% were Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), who work in India's public health system. A notable 97% recognized that climate change contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and is linked to antibiotic use in agriculture and animal husbandry. All respondents employed proper hospital waste disposal methods and believed climate change affects their health, especially when walking long distances in higher temperatures. Most advocated for community and school education programs and suggested creating infographics to raise awareness in the community. They were also aware of antibiotic use in livestock and felt farmers should be educated on reducing pesticides, fertilizers, and antibiotic use for livestock.

The results indicated that healthcare professionals (HCPs) in both rural and urban communities recognize the harmful effects of climate change on their health and the well-being of their communities. Additionally, the findings highlighted the negative impact on the wellness of some last-mile healthcare workers, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The HCPs recommended that future health education initiatives should focus on creating infographics to educate communities about planetary health, sustainable farming practices, and proper waste disposal methods.

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