Antimicrobial resistance research in Singapore – mapping current trends and future perspectives

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) research is increasing globally, but its extent in Singapore is unclear. The aim of this study was to review the current research trends on AMR in Singapore and identify the types of research conducted. Scientific literature on AMR from Singapore published between 2009 and 2019 were retrieved from databases using a search string that included search terms that would encompass the range of terminologies related to “antimicrobial resistance” and “Singapore”. A total of 741 AMR research and review articles published between 2009 and 2019 were identified, which described research led by researchers from Singapore, that involved researchers from Singapore in overseas collaborations, or involved samples or data from Singapore. Articles were assigned to the most appropriate research domain and relevant sector(s) (animal, environment, food or human). Although an upward trend in the number of AMR research articles published was observed, articles that described research on AMR knowledge, awareness, socioeconomic impacts and transmission remained scarce. Furthermore, the higher proportion of research articles from the human sector highlighted that more research from the non-human sectors was needed, which coincidentally began to gradually increase in the last five years. By reviewing the types of studies that were conducted in each domain, broad areas where research gaps exist could be identified, as well as currently unexplored topics. With increasing complexity of the AMR problem and its impacts on multiple sectors, having a comprehensive overview of the evidence gaps is paramount to the development of a relevant One Health research agenda in AMR.HighlightsA review of the trend and scope of AMR research including all sectors was conductedAMR research in Singapore is on the upward trendAMR research in the non-human sectors remained lowResearch on socio-behavioural factors and transmission of AMR to be prioritised