Assessing the Syrian Population's Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Antibiotic Usage

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Antibiotic resistance poses a significant global health threat, largely driven by antibiotic misuse.
• Understanding public knowledge, attitudes, and practices is crucial for combating resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding antibiotic use in the Syrian population.
• To identify factors associated with KAP towards antibiotic use.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in Damascus, Syria, involving outpatient clinic attendees.
• Data were collected via a structured questionnaire assessing demographics, knowledge, attitude, and practice.
• Random convenience sampling was employed over a one-week period.

Main Results:

• A majority of respondents exhibited moderate knowledge (74.8%) and moderate attitudes (59.2%) towards antibiotics.
• Most participants (59.6%) relied solely on pharmacist advice for antibiotics and 80% did not complete their full course.
• Significant associations were observed between knowledge levels and financial status, education, and having healthcare-related family members.

Conclusions:

• The study provides essential baseline data on antibiotic-related KAP in Syria.
• Findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address inappropriate antibiotic use and mitigate resistance.
• Understanding demographic associations can inform the design of effective public health strategies.