A groundbreaking study led by the University of Turku in Finland has revealed significant gender-based differences in antibiotic resistance by analyzing over 14,000 gut metagenomes from around the world. The research found that in high-income countries, women carry a greater load of antibiotic resistance genes compared to men.

Antibiotic resistance poses a major global health threat, rendering once-effective treatments for bacterial infections less potent or even ineffective. It is estimated to contribute to over 1.3 million deaths each year  a number that continues to rise rapidly.

This study is the first to explore gender-based differences in antibiotic resistance using such a large and diverse international dataset. Researchers, under the leadership of Professor Leo Lahti, examined 14,641 publicly available human gut metagenomes from 32 countries. They found that, on average, women in high-income countries had a 9% higher load of antibiotic resistance genes than men. This may indicate that women are more frequently exposed to antibiotics, resistant bacteria, or are more likely to carry such bacteria.

In contrast, men in low- and middle-income countries were found to have slightly higher resistance gene loads, but these differences were not statistically significant after adjusting for factors like age and living conditions. Notably, gender-related differences in resistance emerged during adulthood, implying that lifestyle, biological, or healthcare-related factors may play a greater role later in life.

Postdoctoral researcher Katariina Pärnänen, a member of the research team, emphasized that these findings suggest gender-specific influences on resistance patterns become more pronounced in adulthood.

The study also found that women in high-income countries exhibited a slightly greater diversity of resistance genes than men, indicating a wider range of resistant bacteria in their gut microbiota.

Antibiotic resistance patterns also varied significantly with age and geographic location. Infants and older adults tended to have higher levels and diversity of resistance genes. Regions with higher antibiotic usage and lower sanitation standards particularly in low-income countries also showed elevated resistance levels.

Overall, the research underscores the complex interplay between gender, age, socio-economic conditions, and geography in shaping antibiotic resistance trends. These insights could inform more targeted and equitable public health strategies to combat antibiotic resistance.

"Recognizing gender-based differences in antibiotic resistance is crucial for creating fair and effective healthcare policies. Our work sets the stage for further investigations aimed at addressing health disparities related to antibiotic resistance," concluded Dr. Pärnänen.

Soure: https://www.utu.fi/en/news/press-release/international-comparison-reveals-gender-differences-in-antimicrobial-resistance