The Growing Global Threat Of Antibiotic Resistance Ielts Reading Answers Top 【2025】

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: Paragraph B clearly states that horizontal gene transfer allows bacteria to acquire genes from "completely different species." The statement claims it requires them to be from the "identical species," directly contradicting the text. 12. Answer: TRUE

According to the passage, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics are major contributors to the development of antibiotic resistance. The widespread use of antibiotics in agriculture and medicine has accelerated the evolution of resistant bacteria. Furthermore, the lack of new antibiotics being developed and the inadequate use of existing ones have exacerbated the problem.

Compounding the issue is a stagnant pharmaceutical pipeline. Developing a new antibiotic is a lengthy, high-risk financial gamble that can take over a decade and cost billions of dollars. Because antibiotics are designed to be taken for short periods—unlike chronic disease medications for high blood pressure or diabetes—pharmaceutical companies struggle to recoup their research and development costs. Consequently, major drug corporations have largely abandoned antibiotic research, leaving scientists with a dwindling arsenal against evolving pathogens. To further improve your IELTS Reading score, would

While the natural biological mutation of bacteria is a slow process, human activity has rapidly escalated the crisis. In many parts of the world, antibiotics are readily available over the counter without a prescription, leading to self-medication and improper dosing. Furthermore, the agricultural sector is a major driver of resistance. Farmers frequently administer antibiotics to livestock not only to treat illness but also to promote growth and prevent disease in crowded conditions. This sub-therapeutic usage creates a reservoir of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that can be transmitted to humans via the food chain or through environmental contamination.

The reading passage has six sections, . Which section contains the following information? Write the correct letter, A–F , in boxes 1–5 on your answer sheet.

"Procedures that society now takes for granted—such as routine surgeries... rely heavily on the prophylactic use of antibiotics..." Answer: TRUE According to the passage, the overuse

By staying informed and taking action, we can address the growing global threat of antibiotic resistance and protect public health.

A reference to the agricultural practice of using drugs for reasons other than curing disease.

The report identifies Gram-negative bacteria, such as E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae , as posing the greatest threat. These pathogens are a leading cause of severe bloodstream infections that can lead to sepsis, organ failure, and death. Critically, more than 40% of E. coli and over 55% of K. pneumoniae globally are now resistant to third-generation cephalosporins, which are the first-choice antibiotics for treating these infections. In parts of Africa, this resistance level exceeds 70%. Meanwhile, essential last-resort drugs like carbapenems are also losing their effectiveness, leaving clinicians with increasingly limited options. Compounding the issue is a stagnant pharmaceutical pipeline

Which specific (e.g., Headings, Multiple Choice, Matching Information) gives you the most trouble? What is your target band score ?

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the passage? Write:

Antibiotics are sometimes used as a preventative measure (prophylaxis).