Antibiotic Resistance Antibiotic Resistance Occurs When Micro-Organisms Develop Means of Survival Despite

Antibiotic Resistance
Antibiotic resistance occurs when micro-organisms develop means of survival despite exposure to antibiotics. The development of antibiotic resistance can be traced to two main areas of antibiotic misuse: over-prescription by doctors and unnecessary introduction into animal feed by farmers.
The overuse of antibiotics by both doctors and farmers has increased antibiotic resistance by inadvertently fostering natural selection for resistance in colonies of bacteria. Bacteria that naturally carry antibiotic-resistant genes survive contact with the antibiotics. These resistant bacteria then reproduce, transferring their resistant genes to future generations of bacteria. Over time, this process yields a colony of bacteria that is fully resistant to antibiotics. Some bacteria even develop a variety of resistance genes; these bacteria are colloquially known as "superbugs" because of their ability to resist the majority of antibiotics. Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria responsible for what is commonly known as a "Staph infection," is one of the most resistant pathogens. It is estimated that half of all Staph infections in the United States are resistant to penicillin, methicillin, tetracycline, and erythromycin-the four most common drugs used to treat such infections. The ever-increasing strength and population of these "superbugs" may pose a serious threat to human health in the near future.
The problem of antibiotic resistance has no easy solution. More funding should be available to scientists working toward the research and development of new antibiotics that will fight resistant bacteria. There are also steps that laypeople should take to help prevent further development of resistant bacteria. Individuals with viral infections should not demand antibiotics from their doctors. Consumers should also put pressure on meat manufacturers to stop adding unnecessary antibiotics into animals' diets. Finally, citizens should petition the government to increase funding for scientific research done to combat the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.
Question: What is the primary purpose of the passage?

A) To inform the reader on the chemical mechanics behind antibiotic resistance and place blame on groups who have encouraged antibiotic use.
B) To inform the reader of the causes and effects regarding the overuse of antibiotics and to offer suggestions for combating the problem.
C) To entertain the reader with personal stories about creating change in the scientific research sector.
D) To persuade the reader to limit antibiotic use in the hopes of curbing the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Correct Answer:

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