Researchers studied 236 patients in intensive care units at an Indian hospital and found that nearly 70% carried dangerous antibiotic-resistant bacteria in their intestines. These ‘superbugs’ are extremely hard to treat and were linked to higher death rates. The study found that patients with asthma, those who ate meat, stayed longer in the ICU, or had taken strong antibiotics were more likely to carry these bacteria. Most of the superbugs had a specific gene that makes them resistant to our strongest antibiotics.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: How common dangerous antibiotic-resistant bacteria are in the intestines of ICU patients and what factors increase the risk of carrying them
  • Who participated: 236 patients in intensive care units at a major hospital in northern India
  • Key finding: Nearly 7 out of 10 ICU patients (69%) carried these superbugs, and patients with these bacteria were more likely to die (38% vs 23%)
  • What it means for you: If you or a loved one needs ICU care, ask about infection control measures and whether screening for these bacteria is done

The Research Details

This was a snapshot study that looked at ICU patients at one point in time. Researchers collected stool samples from 236 patients and tested them for antibiotic-resistant bacteria called CRE (carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales). They also gathered information about each patient’s medical history, diet, lifestyle, and treatments through questionnaires and medical records. The bacteria found were then analyzed in the lab to identify exactly which types they were and what genes made them resistant to antibiotics.

This type of study design helps us understand how widespread these dangerous bacteria are right now in ICU settings. While it can’t prove what causes the bacteria to spread, it can identify patterns and risk factors that help doctors and hospitals take better precautions.

The study used standard, reliable methods to identify bacteria and was conducted at a major hospital. However, it only looked at one hospital in India, so the results may not apply to other locations or healthcare systems.

What the Results Show

The most alarming finding was that 69% of ICU patients carried these antibiotic-resistant bacteria in their intestines, even if they weren’t sick from them yet. The most common types were E. coli (found in 74% of positive cases) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (22% of cases). Importantly, patients were more likely to pick up Klebsiella during their ICU stay, suggesting it spreads from patient to patient in the hospital. When researchers looked at the genetic makeup of these bacteria, 84% carried a gene called blaNDM-1, which makes them resistant to carbapenem antibiotics - some of our strongest medicines.

Several factors increased the likelihood of carrying these bacteria. Surprisingly, having asthma was the strongest risk factor - 100% of asthma patients in the study carried the bacteria. Other important factors included eating meat, staying in the ICU for longer periods, and having taken broad-spectrum antibiotics before. The bacteria were also linked to worse outcomes - 38% of patients with these bacteria died compared to 23% of those without them.

The 69% rate found in this study is quite high compared to some other regions, highlighting that this may be a particularly serious problem in certain healthcare settings. The dominance of the blaNDM-1 gene is consistent with patterns seen in other parts of Asia, where this particular resistance mechanism is common.

This study only looked at one hospital, so we don’t know if these rates apply elsewhere. It also can’t prove that the bacteria directly caused the higher death rates - sicker patients might be more likely to both carry the bacteria and die from their underlying conditions. The study also couldn’t track exactly how the bacteria spread between patients.

The Bottom Line

Hospitals should consider routine screening for these bacteria in ICU patients, especially those with asthma or other risk factors. Strict hand hygiene, isolation procedures, and careful antibiotic use are essential. Patients and families should ask healthcare providers about infection control measures and whether screening is being done.

This is most relevant for people who might need ICU care, their families, and healthcare workers. People with asthma should be especially aware of this risk if they need intensive care. However, this was only one hospital in India, so the specific rates may not apply to other locations.

These bacteria can be acquired quickly during a hospital stay, sometimes within days. The health impacts can be immediate if an infection develops, making prevention and early detection crucial.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track any hospital stays, antibiotic use, and infection symptoms, especially after ICU care
  • Log all antibiotic courses and discuss with doctors whether they’re truly necessary, as overuse increases superbug risk
  • Monitor for signs of infection (fever, unusual symptoms) for weeks after any ICU stay and report them promptly to healthcare providers

This research was conducted at one hospital in India and may not apply to other healthcare settings. This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult healthcare providers about infection risks and prevention strategies appropriate for your specific situation.