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Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly those caused by extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria, pose a significant and escalating global health challenge, affecting nearly 100 million individuals annually. This study investigates the prevalence and resistance patterns of ESBL-producing uropathogenic bacteria in Chennai, focusing on pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., and Pseudomonas spp.A total of 100 urine samples were collected from in-patients and out-patients at multispecialty hospitals, representing diverse demographic groups. Pathogen identification was conducted using standard microbiological methods, including Gram staining, selective media isolation, and biochemical profiling. Antibiotic susceptibility testing and Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) index calculations revealed high resistance levels, particularly to β-lactam antibiotics, necessitating the use of stronger treatments like carbapenems.Results showed E. coli as the predominant uropathogen, with females significantly more affected than males (84% vs. 12%). In-patients had a higher positivity rate (53%) compared to out-patients (37%), likely due to healthcare-associated factors such as catheterization and extended hospital stays. These findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted infection control measures in healthcare settings and region-specific treatment guidelines to address local resistance patterns.Routine antibiotic susceptibility testing, robust antimicrobial stewardship, and public awareness campaigns are vital to curb multidrug-resistant pathogens. Comprehensive strategies, including gender-sensitive interventions and stringent infection control policies, are critical to managing ESBL-producing UTIs and mitigating the public health burden of antimicrobial resistance.