[Geographic variability in prescribing antibiotics in the pediatric population of Castille and León during 2001-2005]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pharmacology
• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology

Background:

• Antibiotic consumption is a key factor in antimicrobial resistance.
• Understanding pediatric antibiotic prescribing patterns is crucial for public health initiatives.
• Variability in antibiotic use can indicate differences in clinical practice and resource allocation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess antibiotic consumption differences in pediatric populations across eleven Primary Health Care centers in Castilla Leon (2001-2005).
• To analyze potential causes for observed variations in antibiotic prescribing.
• To evaluate both quantitative and qualitative aspects of antibiotic use in this region.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of non-hospital antibiotic consumption data from the Health Service of Castilla Leon.
• Data categorized using the Anatomic Therapeutic Chemical Classification System (ATC).
• Consumption expressed as defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day (DID).

Main Results:

• Statistically significant differences in antibiotic use were found, with rates varying by 8.3 DID between Leon (highest) and Soria (lowest).
• Prescribing patterns and temporal fluctuations in antibiotic use showed considerable variation, notably in Segovia.
• Penicillin with beta-lactamase inhibitors varied nearly threefold between Burgos and Segovia; Segovia demonstrated good management, while Soria showed low consumption but misuse.

Conclusions:

• Significant quantitative and qualitative variability in pediatric antibiotic use exists among primary health care centers in Castilla Leon.
• Further research is needed on age groups, socioeconomic factors, and indications to fully understand antibiotic use determinants in children.
• Optimizing antibiotic prescribing requires addressing both consumption levels and adherence to recommended guidelines.