Antibiotic resistance in bacteria can occur through several mechanisms, primarily via genetic mutations or acquiring resistance genes from other bacteria. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics create selective pressure, allowing only resistant strains to survive and proliferate. These resistance traits can be transferred between bacteria through processes such as conjugation, leading to fully resistant populations. This phenomenon poses significant challenges to public health, as it compromises the effectiveness of antibiotics, necessitating ongoing research and stewardship efforts to manage and prevent resistance.