Latest news with #AntimicrobialResistance


Medscape
10-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
AMR Isn't Just Coming but Already Undermining Your Practice
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most urgent public health challenges in 2025. This phenomenon occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve resistance to drugs that were once effective. According to the CDC's 2025 report, AMR could lead to as many as 10 million deaths annually by 2050, overtaking major diseases like cancer. AMR stems from the natural evolutionary ability of microbes to survive selective pressure from antimicrobials. This process is significantly accelerated by the overuse and misuse of these drugs in human health, veterinary medicine, and agriculture. Resistant infections often require longer treatment courses, are associated with increased disability and mortality, and lead to extended hospital stays and higher healthcare costs — placing a growing burden on health systems and global economies. The CDC estimates at least 2.8 million resistant infections and over 35,000 related deaths annually in the US alone. Resistance Mechanisms AMR typically arises through two primary mechanisms: spontaneous genetic mutations and horizontal gene transfer (via conjugation, transformation, or transduction). Recent findings outline several well-characterized resistance pathways: Target modification: Structural alterations in drug targets — often key proteins or cell components — can prevent effective drug binding. Enzyme production: Certain bacteria produce enzymes such as beta-lactamases that deactivate antibiotics like penicillins and cephalosporins. These enzymes are increasingly common in gram-negative species such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae . and . Efflux pumps and permeability barriers: Some bacteria limit drug entry or actively expel antibiotics using multidrug efflux pumps. This is particularly problematic in gram-negative organisms due to their additional outer membrane. These resistance mechanisms can coexist within a single organism, giving rise to 'pan-resistant' strains that are unaffected by nearly all available antimicrobial agents. Resistance can emerge rapidly — even during the course of treatment — turning previously susceptible infections resistant mid-therapy and narrowing treatment options dramatically. Recent Trends and Global Data New international data highlight the accelerating spread of AMR, with particularly concerning developments across both bacterial and fungal pathogens. The World Health Organization (WHO)'s 2024 Bacterial Priority Pathogens List documented rising resistance rates in K pneumoniae and E coli , especially in Asia and Africa — regions where therapeutic options remain severely limited. These findings align with projections from a 2024 commentary published in The Lancet , which estimates that AMR could cause up to 10 million deaths annually by 2050, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries. In the US, the CDC reported that more than 35% of hospital-acquired urinary tract infections in 2024 were caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms. This surge is driven in large part by the horizontal transmission of resistance genes via mobile genetic elements such as plasmids and transposons. MDR tuberculosis also continues to pose a serious global health threat. Data from Eastern Europe and parts of Asia show that over 20% of new tuberculosis cases now involve MDR strains. These cases require longer, more toxic regimens and are associated with poorer clinical outcomes, adding further strain to public health systems. Fungal resistance is emerging as a parallel crisis. A recent review reported that more than 90% of Candida auris isolates collected from hospitals in Europe and North America were resistant to multiple antifungal agents. This poses a serious risk to patients who are immunocompromised and critically ill, particularly in ICUs where infection control remains challenging. Despite the growing threat, treatment pipelines remain thin. While several new antimicrobial agents are under investigation, most remain in preclinical or early clinical stages. The report underscores an urgent need for sustained investment in antimicrobial drug development to replenish a shrinking therapeutic arsenal. Adding to the concern, recent studies describe the emergence of novel resistance mechanisms in gram-positive pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus . Some strains have developed traits that compromise the efficacy of even newly approved agents — further complicating treatment strategies and escalating costs of care. As AMR continues to evolve across multiple fronts, these findings reinforce the need for comprehensive, coordinated strategies to monitor resistance patterns; support antimicrobial stewardship; and accelerate therapeutic innovation. Economic Toll The global economic impact of AMR could be staggering. The 2024 Lancet commentary projects that AMR could result in up to $100 trillion in economic losses by 2050. The burden is expected to fall disproportionately on low- and middle-income countries, where weaker health systems and limited access to effective therapies could exacerbate existing disparities in both health outcomes and economic development. Clinical consequences are already evident in hospitals around the world. Recent research shows that resistant healthcare-associated infections — such as bloodstream infections and ventilator-associated pneumonias — are associated with mortality rates approaching 30% higher in patients in resource-limited settings. Contributing factors include poor hospital infrastructure, limited access to diagnostics and therapeutics, and inadequate infection control measures. Meanwhile, a 2024 review highlights the growing threat of hospital-acquired infections caused by Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa — both of which exhibit high levels of resistance to multiple antibiotic classes. Without effective interventions, these infections may become increasingly difficult, if not impossible, to treat, further driving up hospital mortality and straining intensive care resources. Emerging Strategies and Solutions Several promising strategies are being explored to slow AMR progression and strengthen the clinical response. Development of new antimicrobials: Recent research highlights novel compounds designed to overcome common resistance mechanisms. While early in development, these agents may offer new hope against multidrug-resistant pathogens. Alternative therapies: Early-phase studies suggest that bacteriophage therapy and antibacterial nanoparticles could serve as complementary approaches to combat infections that no longer respond to conventional treatments. These technologies are gaining traction but require rigorous clinical validation. Antimicrobial stewardship and surveillance: Effective stewardship programs remain central to the AMR response. Core components include the rational prescribing of antimicrobials, real-time infection surveillance, and access to rapid diagnostic tools for antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Education and global awareness: The WHO and CDC continue to emphasize the need for coordinated global education campaigns to promote the appropriate use of antimicrobials and curb self-medication — particularly in countries with weak regulatory oversight. National initiatives: In Spain, the 2025-2027 Plan Nacional frente a la Resistencia a los Antibióticos (National Plan against Antibiotic Resistance) stands out as a model. The plan includes enhanced epidemiologic surveillance, increased funding for antimicrobial research, ongoing training for healthcare providers, and public education campaigns. It also calls for integrated action across all levels of the health system to ensure a coordinated national response. Conclusions AMR is no longer a looming threat — it is a present-day global health emergency. Its continued spread is undermining the foundations of modern medicine, with far-reaching consequences for clinical care, public health, and global equity. As resistance mechanisms become increasingly complex and widespread, the therapeutic arsenal is shrinking — particularly in hospital settings and for vulnerable populations. Meanwhile, antibiotic development continues to lag, with most new agents stalled in early-phase research. To avoid a future where routine infections become untreatable, the global response must be ambitious and coordinated. Expanding antimicrobial stewardship, accelerating drug development through sustained investment, and enforcing rational prescribing practices are all urgent priorities. These efforts must be anchored in the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Education and behavior change are equally essential. Clinicians, patients, and policymakers all play a role in preserving the effectiveness of existing antimicrobials. And while emerging therapies such as phage therapy, nanomedicine, and immunomodulation offer hope, they require rigorous testing and clear regulatory pathways before they can be integrated into clinical practice. The window for action is narrowing — but meaningful progress is still possible. With global alignment, scientific innovation, and sustained commitment, the trajectory of AMR can be reversed.


The Hindu
26-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Telangana battles rising kidney failures, deaths amid surge in quack clinics
In emergency departments of government hospitals across Telangana, doctors are witnessing a troubling rise in kidney failure cases among patients who first sought care at informal clinics. 'When we probe their medical history, many recall being prescribed a cocktail of medicines by a so-called rural doctor. Upon verification, we often find that the clinic was operated by an unqualified practitioner or a quack,' doctors said. The proliferation of unqualified medical practitioners, or quacks, is not confined to rural Telangana. It is now a deep-rooted, state-wide public health crisis affecting both urban and rural populations, according to senior health officials and professional medical bodies. Despite recent efforts to clamp down on illegal medical practice, the challenge remains systemic and urgent. Crackdown in motion, but problem deep-rooted Nearly a year into a statewide crackdown on unauthorised medical practice, Srinivas Gundagani, vice chairman of the Telangana Medical Council (TGMC), shared that the Council has so far filed over 450 FIRs across the state, with around 140 cases currently in court. 'What we are seeing is not just illegal practice but life-threatening mismanagement by unqualified individuals. During one of our raids in Sangareddy district, we found a 10th-fail woman performing abortions. In another case, a woman with no medical background was managing an emergency room, prescribing IV antibiotics, and giving medication to pregnant women,' he added. TGMC categorises quacks into three broad groups: Completely unqualified individuals, some barely educated, who run clinics and treat everything from fevers to hypertension, even performing abortions and minor surgeries. AYUSH practitioners (BAMS, BHMS, Unani) illegally practise allopathy — managing ICUs, performing deliveries, administering IV drugs, and prescribing steroids, often without oversight from any MBBS-qualified doctors. Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) who have not cleared the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) but practice under the guise of being doctors by borrowing the credentials or prescription pads of others Antibiotic misuse, kidney failure, and deaths Medical experts are raising alarm bells about the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and steroids by these untrained practitioners, a practice that is fuelling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), which could pose a bigger global health threat than COVID-19 by 2050. 'These people do not understand diagnosis or proper dosage. The misuse is causing irreversible damage, kidney failure, cataracts, and even deaths,' Dr. Srinivas said, citing the case of a gym trainer in Hyderabad who was misdiagnosed by a quack and later died from a cardiac episode after being sent home without even an ECG. Another disturbing case involved a botched piles surgery by a quack that had to be corrected by a qualified surgeon at ESI Hospital in Hyderabad Weak enforcement and legal loopholes Though TGMC has been proactive in identifying violators and filing FIRs, it lacks enforcement authority. 'Once we file an FIR, we forward it to the District Medical and Health Officers (DMHOs) to take further action. Some respond, but most do not' Dr. Srinivas said. He pointed out that DMHOs are empowered under the Telangana Medical Practitioners Act to seal clinics and prosecute offenders but often fail to act, allowing quack-run facilities to reopen within days. A 2021 dossier by the National Health Systems Resource Centre highlights significant gaps in Telangana's public healthcare infrastructure. Rural areas face a 12.4% shortfall in Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and a 53.04% shortfall in Community Health Centres (CHCs). The situation is even more severe in urban regions, where PHC shortfall stands at 27.41%. Tribal areas are the worst affected, with a 44.12% shortfall in CHCs and a 46.38% shortfall in PHCs, leaving these already vulnerable communities critically underserved. Dr Srinivas dismissed the argument that quacks are necessary in rural areas due to a shortage of doctors. 'Telangana produces nearly 10,000 MBBS graduates annually. What we lack is not doctors, it's infrastructure, regulation, and political will,' he said. IMA Telangana raises red flag Echoing TGMC's concerns, Dwarakanath Reddy, president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Telangana chapter, described the situation as 'a slow-burning epidemic'. He criticised past government efforts to informally legitimise quacks in rural areas through pseudo-certification, calling them illegal and dangerous. 'No certification can be given to an unqualified person, that's the law. What we are seeing is a result of casual employment in hospitals, where support staff gain minimal experience and then open unauthorised clinics,' he said. Dr. Reddy warned of the severe public health consequences of what he termed the 'shotgun approach' of prescribing, a method in which quacks give broad-spectrum antibiotics and steroids for every complaint, leading to temporary relief but long-term harm. 'This is one of the biggest contributors to AMR,' he said. He urged the government to create enabling conditions for MBBS graduates to serve in rural areas. 'If you want young doctors to set up practice in remote districts, you need to provide subsidies, housing, and supportive systems, not allow untrained individuals to fill the gap.' Quackery is not a professional rivalry issue, it is a life-and-death matter Both TGMC and IMA leaders stressed that the anti-quackery drive is not about professional rivalry, but about preventable deaths and long-term health consequences due to misdiagnosis and irrational drug use. 'This is about saving lives. We have seen patients lose kidneys, go blind from steroid overuse, or die after botched procedures in unhygienic settings. Quackery is a threat to life, not just legality,' Dr. Srinivas said.


Hans India
15-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Coordinated action vital to combat antimicrobial resistance: Minister
Bengaluru: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is emerging as a silent pandemic globally, prompting urgent calls for a coordinated response, Karnataka's Minister for Science and Technology, N. S. Boseraju, said on Tuesday. Speaking at the inauguration of a three-day national conference titled 'Antimicrobial Resistance: Mitigation Strategies and Alternatives', organised by the Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA), Boseraju highlighted the World Health Organisation's concerns over the growing threat of AMR and stressed the importance of collective scientific and policy-driven efforts. 'In India, the India AMR Innovation Hub is leading the charge by encouraging researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to develop context-specific solutions through collaboration,' the minister said. 'Both the central and state governments have taken significant steps to tackle AMR through awareness campaigns, monitoring of antibiotic usage, regulating drug sales, and promoting appropriate use in both humans and animals.' He added that Karnataka remains at the forefront of AMR-related research, with several leading institutions in Bengaluru developing novel strategies to counter antimicrobial resistance. 'Fighting AMR is not only a scientific challenge but also a moral responsibility,' Boseraju remarked. 'It is through shared knowledge and determined effort that we can safeguard public health, ensure food security, and promote sustainable development.' The conference brought together prominent experts, including Dr. Raghavendra Bhatta, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR); Dr. Karuna Saghar, former senior official at the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation and Advisor to Nitte University; Dr. C. N. Ravishankar, former Vice Chancellor of the Central Institute of Fisheries Education; and Prof. Indrani Karuna Saghar, Director at Nitte University. KSTA CEO Dr. A. M. Ramesh and senior scientist Dr. R. Anand also participated. A tribute was paid to the late Padma Shri awardee and renowned scientist Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan during the event.


Hans India
14-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Coordinated Action Vital to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance: Karnataka Minister N. S. Boseraju
Bengaluru: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is emerging as a silent pandemic globally, prompting urgent calls for a coordinated response, Karnataka's Minister for Science and Technology, N. S. Boseraju, said on Tuesday. Speaking at the inauguration of a three-day national conference titled "Antimicrobial Resistance: Mitigation Strategies and Alternatives", organised by the Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA), Boseraju highlighted the World Health Organization's concerns over the growing threat of AMR and stressed the importance of collective scientific and policy-driven efforts. 'In India, the India AMR Innovation Hub is leading the charge by encouraging researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to develop context-specific solutions through collaboration,' the minister said. 'Both the central and state governments have taken significant steps to tackle AMR through awareness campaigns, monitoring of antibiotic usage, regulating drug sales, and promoting appropriate use in both humans and animals.' He added that Karnataka remains at the forefront of AMR-related research, with several leading institutions in Bengaluru developing novel strategies to counter antimicrobial resistance. 'Fighting AMR is not only a scientific challenge but also a moral responsibility,' Boseraju remarked. 'It is through shared knowledge and determined effort that we can safeguard public health, ensure food security, and promote sustainable development.' The conference brought together prominent experts including Dr. Raghavendra Bhatta, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR); Dr. Karuna Saghar, former senior official at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and Advisor to Nitte University; Dr. C. N. Ravishankar, former Vice Chancellor of the Central Institute of Fisheries Education; and Prof. Indrani Karuna Saghar, Director at Nitte University. KSTA CEO Dr. A. M. Ramesh and senior scientist Dr. R. Anand also participated. A tribute was paid to the late Padma Shri awardee and renowned scientist Prof. Subbanna Ayyappan during the event.


Zawya
05-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
New Report Calls for Collective Action to Combat Asia's Growing Antimicrobial Resistance Threat
The Centre for Impact Investing and Practices and the World Economic Forum's GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative, supported by the Philanthropy Asia Alliance, have released a study urging cross-sector investment to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Asia. AMR could cost Asia up to US$700 billion by 2050 and surpass cancer as the world's leading cause of death. Report outlines four high-impact intervention areas – from education and prevention to surveillance and treatment – to guide funders and partners. SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 5 May 2025 - The Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP) and the World Economic Forum's GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative, supported by the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA), today launched the report — Targeted Action and Financing the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance in Asia. The report underscores the urgent threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Asia and outlines four key areas where cross-sector funders can drive meaningful impact. It draws on insights from 15 case studies and examples of funding mechanisms, and contributions from 26 organisations, including international organisations, corporations, philanthropic funders, public institutions, and solution providers. Often called the silent pandemic, AMR was linked to 4.7 million deaths annually in 2021. [1] It is estimated to become the leading cause of death by 2050, claiming more than 8 million lives [2] and surpassing cancer [3]. Beyond human health, AMR threatens global food systems by reducing global livestock production and polluting waterways. Tackling this growing crisis requires a unified, whole-of-ecosystem approach. "Antimicrobial resistance is a mounting crisis that threatens to reverse decades of medical progress, with Asia at the epicenter of this challenge. We have identified clear needs, but no single organisation can tackle this alone and substantial philanthropic and catalytic funding is required. It demands all actors — across sectors and borders — to step up, pool resources, and collaborate. Together, we hope that through active partnerships, we can build a future where effective treatments remain within everyone's reach," said Ms. Dawn Chan, Chief Executive Officer, CIIP. "The Davos Compact on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), launched earlier in January this year, seeks to mobilise public-private-philanthropic, cross sectoral collaboration to reduce the global and increasing threat of AMR. This report builds on the Davos Compact, highlighting practical, high impact interventions where catalytic investments can help safeguard health and well-being, reducing risks and deaths associated with AMR," said Ms. Gim Huay Neo, Managing Director, Member of the Managing Board, World Economic Forum. Asia: A Crucible for the Multifaceted AMR Challenge Globally, nearly one in five AMR-related deaths occur in children under five [4], and two in three in adults over 65 [5]. However, Asia bears the brunt of the disease incidence, accounting for more than half of the 4.71 million deaths worldwide associated with AMR in 2021 [6]. Rising temperatures and extreme weather events are accelerating bacterial growth and disease transmission, while disrupting healthcare and immunisation services – particularly in regions with inadequate healthcare infrastructure and sanitation. These climate-related pressures are also driving the increased use of antimicrobials in livestock and crops, contaminating freshwater sources and fuelling drug resistance. In Asia Pacific alone, AMR-related costs are projected to reach up to US$700 billion by 2050, accounting for up to 1% of the region's GDP [7]. However, timely investment in AMR solutions could generate US$10–15 billion in annual healthcare savings, and cut annual socio-economic costs by up to US$40 billion for Asia Pacific within the next decade. [8] Tackling AMR is essential for health security, as well as ensuring long-term economic resilience and sustainable development. A Unified Approach to Antimicrobial Development and Use Despite research advancements, market and policy gaps make it challenging to bring new drugs to patients as the costs involved in development and regulatory approval tend to outweigh the immediate returns upon product launch. A One Health approach — one that recognises the interconnectedness and interdependence across humans, animals, plants, and the wider environment — is essential to tackle AMR sustainably. While new therapeutics such as drugs and vaccines can take 10 to 15 years to develop and launch to market [9] (a marathon), immediate and practical interventions (sprints) are needed to curb resistance today and pave the way for long-term solutions. The report thus proposes interventions in four areas: Sprint 1: Educate – Improving knowledge and behaviour by strengthening awareness of AMR among clinicians, patients, and farmers; emphasising the importance of avoiding the overuse or abuse of antimicrobials; as well as introducing strategies to prevent infections in the first place. Sprint 2: Prevent – Strengthening health systems and services by boosting preventive measures such as improving diagnostic capabilities and investing in better water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) measures. Sprint 3: Monitor – Enhancing regional surveillance, and data collection and sharing between actors, especially in lower-income countries. Marathon: Treat – Investing in research and development for new antimicrobials, and increasing access to novel and essential medicines. Financing AMR Solutions At Every Stage Private funders, impact investors, and philanthropists have a vital role to play in closing critical gaps – particularly in late-stage drug development, where funding is scarce. By pooling resources, funders can help bring life-saving treatments to market, strengthen the antibiotic pipeline, and build more sustainable and widespread access to essential medicines. "This report is a catalyst for deeper involvement from all sectors — philanthropic, public, and private. It highlights the scale of the AMR threat and the opportunity for collective action. We are encouraged by the ongoing work of organisations – including PAA members like the Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust, and Novo Nordisk Foundation – in driving AMR research and greater access to affordable solutions. Now is the time for more partners to come together, pool resources, and support high-impact solutions that safeguard health and resilience across Asia and beyond," said Mr. Shaun Seow, Chief Executive Officer, PAA. The AMR threat demands urgent, coordinated, and sustained action across healthcare, agriculture, and food systems to protect communities in Asia. Read the full report here: [1] Naghavi, M., Vollset, S. E., Ikuta, K. S. et al. (2024). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10459, p1199-1226. [2] Naghavi, M., Vollset, S. E., Ikuta, K. S. et al. (2024). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10459, p1199-1226. [3] Gavi (2022). Antimicrobial resistance now causes more deaths than HIV/AIDS and malaria worldwide – new study. 20 January 2022. Available at: [4] Antimicrobial Resistance Collaborators. (2022). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance in 2019: a systematic analysis. The Lancet, Volume 399, Issue 10325, p629-655. [5] Naghavi, M., Vollset, S. E., Ikuta, K. S. et al. (2024). Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10459, p1199-1226. [6] Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). (2024). The Lancet: More than 39 million deaths from antibiotic-resistant infections estimated between now and 2050, suggests first global analysis. [7] L.E.K. Consulting (2021) Asia-Pacific in the Eye of AMR Storm: Nurturing Innovation To Fight Antimicrobial Resistance. [8] L.E.K. (2021). Asia-Pacific in the Eye of AMR Storm: Nurturing Innovation To Fight Antimicrobial Resistance. [9] Derep, M. (2022). What's the average time to bring a drug to market in 2022? N-Side. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About the Centre for Impact Investing and Practices The Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP) was established in 2022 as a non-profit entity by Temasek Trust to foster impact investing and practices in Asia and beyond by building and sharing knowledge, bringing together stakeholders in the community, and bringing about positive action that accelerates the adoption of impact investing principles and practices. CIIP is the anchor partner for the United Nation Development Programme's Private Finance for the SDGs, providing Asia investors and businesses with clarity, insights and tools that support their contributions towards achieving the SDGs. Temasek and ABC Impact are CIIP's strategic partners. For more information, please visit About GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) To reach net zero, reverse nature loss and restore biodiversity by 2050, funding for equitable climate and nature transitions must be stepped up by more than $3 trillion annually. No actor can solve these issues alone; only together – through partnerships, elevated ambition and accelerated learning – can the most pressing problems facing the planet be solved. The World Economic Forum launched the GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative to convene 4P – Public, Private and Philanthropic Partnerships – for climate and nature, activating systemic bold partnerships to improve the state of the world. About Philanthropy Asia Alliance Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA) is a Temasek Trust initiative dedicated to catalysing collaborative philanthropy in Asia through dynamic multi-sector partnerships. By harnessing collective strengths, PAA multiplies impact, accelerates positive change, and takes urgent action to address the pressing environmental and social challenges of our time. PAA's flagship programme is the annual Philanthropy Asia Summit. For more information, visit Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP), the World Economic Forum's GAEA (Giving to Amplify Earth Action) initiative, and the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA)