Hospital-acquired infections as a public health problem – epidemiological and economic aspects
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12923/2083-4829/2026-0008Keywords:
epidemiology, public health, infection prevention, hospital acquired infections, infections controlAbstract
Introduction. Hospital-acquired infections are a significant public health problem, increasing patient morbidity and mortality, and generating considerable costs for healthcare systems. The scale of the phenomenon varies regionally and depends on the quality of epidemiological surveillance and the implementation of preventive measures.
Aim. To present the current epidemiological and economic consequences of hospital-acquired infections in terms of public health based on a review of the literature.
Methods of review. A structured, non-systematic review of the literature was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Publications in English from January 2020 to June 2025 were included. The selection of sources included original and review articles, as well as reports from international institutions.
Current knowledge. Available data show substantial regional variation in the incidence of hospital-acquired infections, partly due to differences in surveillance systems. In the European Union, infections affect about 5-7% of hospitalised patients, compared with 5-10% in Poland and approximately 3.2% in the United States. These infections generate considerable direct and indirect costs, estimated at USD 28.4-45 billion annually in the US and around 800 million PLN per year in Poland. Evidence indicates that prevention strategies can reduce infection rates by 30-50%, yielding significant economic benefits.
Summary. Hospital-acquired infections remain a significant epidemiological and economic burden, and reducing them requires strengthening surveillance, standardising procedures, and investing in effective, evidence-based preventive interventions.
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