Amman, April 15 (Petra) – The Senate’s Health, Environment and Population Committee, chaired by Senator Yassin Hasban, on Wednesday discussed a national initiative titled "Guardian of Generations" aimed at addressing the misuse of antibiotics and strengthening efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance.

The meeting, held with the Pan Arab Women Physicians Association headed by Maisam Akroush, brought together representatives from the Royal Medical Services, the Jordan Medical Association, the Jordan Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization, and the association’s members.

Hasban said antimicrobial resistance represents one of the most serious "silent" public health challenges, warning that it has evolved into a global health threat with the potential to become a leading cause of mortality in the future.

He stressed that the misuse of antibiotics, their dispensing without prescriptions, and the widespread perception that they provide a rapid cure for pain and inflammation have all contributed to accelerating resistance. He underlined the need to strengthen regulatory oversight of antibiotic dispensing, in addition to enhancing the role of physicians and pharmacists in ensuring proper use.

Hasban emphasized the importance of cooperation with the Ministry of Health and professional associations to launch comprehensive national programs based on awareness, accurate diagnosis, and strict adherence to prescription-only dispensing. He said protecting public health requires a collective effort and affirmed the committee’s readiness to support legislative and regulatory measures to curb the phenomenon.

Akroush said the initiative seeks to raise awareness of the risks associated with the misuse of antibiotics and their negative impact on public health, particularly the growing resistance of bacteria to treatment.

She added that the initiative focuses on promoting rational drug use through awareness campaigns and educational programs targeting various segments of society, to safeguard future generations and preserve treatment effectiveness.

Director of the Royal Medical Services, Sahel Hammouri, said the service applies treatment protocols aligned with international standards governing medication use, noting that a specialised field in this area has been developed and a board examination introduced to enhance medical competency.

He added that these protocols have been implemented across Royal Medical Services hospitals, with specialised physicians assigned to regulate medication dosages for up to 80 patients, alongside antibiotic-specific protocols integrated into the "Hakeem" health information system to ensure safe and effective use.

Representatives of professional associations said they are ready to cooperate across sectors under a unified framework to harmonise efforts, streamline procedures, and promote behavioural and cultural change regarding antibiotic use, stressing the importance of clear objectives and measurable outcomes.

Director General of the Jordan Food and Drug Administration, Rana Obeidat, highlighted the importance of translating the initiative into practical measures, noting the institution’s commitment to supporting implementation and its experience in the field, including regional recognition and training roles.

Iman Shanqiti, the World Health Organization representative in Jordan, expressed support for Jordan’s efforts to promote rational use of medicines and reduce antibiotic misuse, commending progress in adopting treatment protocols and integrating digital health systems.

She reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with national institutions to support awareness campaigns and capacity-building programs aimed at protecting public health and ensuring the sustainability of health systems.

//Petra// AJ