Is Naming a New Antibiotic Resistance Gene After New Delhi Helpful or Harmful?
Author Information
Author(s): Manoj Jain, John T.J.
Primary Institution: Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University
Hypothesis
Does naming the new metallo-β-lactamase after New Delhi help in addressing antibiotic misuse in India?
Conclusion
Naming the new metallo-β-lactamase after New Delhi has had negative impacts and has not helped improve public perception of antibiotic therapy in India.
Supporting Evidence
- The name NDM-1 has been misused to warn against medical tourism in India.
- Over 5000 individuals have signed a public appeal to change the name.
- The naming has not helped in increasing public awareness about antibiotic misuse.
Takeaway
The name of a new antibiotic resistance gene after New Delhi is causing problems and doesn't help people understand antibiotic issues in India.
Potential Biases
The naming has been misused to discourage medical tourism, which may bias public perception.
Limitations
The editorial discusses the negative implications of the name without providing empirical evidence.
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