Population opinions and knowledge around antibiotic use and resistance

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global public health challenge, resulting in increased healthcare costs, higher mortality rates, and more difficult-to-treat infections. Improper use of antibiotics, including self-medication and overprescription, contributes significantly to AMR. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of the population regarding antibiotic use and resistance,
Methods: This study targeting the general population . A 25-item questionnaire was administered online, capturing antibiotic usage patterns, reasons for usage, and knowledge of antibiotic effectiveness and risks. The study employed stratified sampling to ensure demographic and regional representation, with a sample size of 700 respondents. The survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate ordinal logistic regression to identify predictors of antibiotic knowledge.
Results: Of the 1014 respondents, 76.8% reported using antibiotics in the past year, with 78.6% using them based on a doctor's prescription. The average Antibiotic Knowledge Score (AKS) was 2.6 out of 4, with 32.5% of participants answering all knowledge questions correctly. Factors associated with higher antibiotic knowledge included being female, having a higher level of education, and being open to changing views on antibiotic use after receiving new information. Only 31.3% of participants had received advice on rational antibiotic use in 2022, with half of them reporting a change in their perspective.
Conclusion: This study provides valuable baseline data on public knowledge and behaviors related to antibiotic use Findings suggest that education, gender, and willingness to learn play significant roles in improving antibiotic knowledge. Future public health interventions should focus on targeted educational campaigns to raise awareness about the responsible use of antibiotics and combat antimicrobial resistance, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.