Sepsis

When an infection becomes life-threatening

Sepsis is a severe and life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s response to an infection spirals out of control, leading to tissue and organ damage. Originally known as blood poisoning, sepsis is essentially the body’s overwhelming and often destructive immune reaction to infection.

One of the major challenges in combating sepsis is the issue of late diagnosis. The symptoms of sepsis can be easily confused with less serious conditions, which delays effective treatment. Additionally, the growing problem of antibiotic resistance complicates the treatment of bacterial infections, making it harder to manage these infections before they escalate into sepsis.

The global impact of sepsis is profound. Approximately 49 million people develop sepsis each year, and out of these, 20 procent—nearly one in five—do not survive. For those who do survive, the aftermath of sepsis often includes permanent damage and long-term health complications, which can drastically affect quality of life.

The statistics highlight the critical need for improved detection and treatment strategies for sepsis, as well as better public awareness and understanding of the condition to reduce its widespread and devastating effects.

The following symptoms might indicate sepsis:

  • Slurred speech or confusion
  • Extreme shivering or muscle pain, fever
  • Passing no urine all day
  • Severe breathlessness
  • It feels like you’re going to die
  • Skin mottled or discolored

Source: www.worldsepsisday.org/sepsis

The most common sources of sepsis

It is estimated that up to 50 procent of all cases of sepsis can be attributed to healthcare associated infections,2 where urinary tract infection is one of the most common sources of sepsis as well as pneumonia and catheter related bloodstream infection. Consequently, preventing healthcare associated infections is crucial for reducing the occurrence of sepsis.

Source: World Sepsis Day – www.worldsepsisday.org. Click on the picture to enlarge.
Source: World Sepsis Day – www.worldsepsisday.org. Click on the picture to enlarge.

Sepsis is a global health crisis

Sepsis represents a critical global health crisis, accounting for 20 procent of all deaths worldwide. This condition impacts approximately 49 million people annually, with at least 11 million succumbing to it—translating to one death every 2.8 seconds. The mortality rate from sepsis varies significantly depending on the country, ranging from 15 procent to over 50 procent. Additionally, many of those who survive sepsis continue to endure its debilitating consequences for the remainder of their lives, often facing long-term health challenges. This highlights the urgent need for enhanced awareness, early detection, and effective treatment strategies to mitigate the devastating impact of sepsis across the globe.