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Perception and determinants leading to antimicrobial (mis)use: A knowledge, attitude, and practices study in the
Matrujyoti Pattnaik1, Ashish Kumar Nayak1, Sonam Karna1
1Department of Microbiology, ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre (Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India), Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Background:
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as one of the major public health issues globally. This cross-sectional study determined knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding antimicrobial use and AMR among rural communities of Tigiria (Odisha), India.
Methods:
A semi-structured questionnaire based on socio-demographic characteristics, antibiotics usage, awareness of antimicrobial resistance, healthcare utilization and quality of life were asked to the participants using an electronic device with Open Data Kit. Descriptive statistics, independent t-test and ANOVA were performed to analyze the variables.
Results:
A total of 1,003 participants were surveyed in the study from 25 villages of Tigiria. About 44.47% (95% CI: 41.36-47.60) of study participants have heard about antimicrobial medicines and 14.75% (95% CI: 12.65-17.13) of participants were involved in buying antibiotics without prescription over the counter. Around 20.14% (95% CI: 17.72-22.78) of participants, stopped taking antibiotics before completing the full course. The physical domain was the most affected with low scores compared to other domains of quality of life (QOL). The QOL scores were found significant (p < 0.05) across age, gender, education and ethnicity.
Conclusion:
The study documented a significant level of KAP regarding antimicrobial (mis)use in the study. It is essential that antimicrobial stewardship programs for various stakeholders and educational programmes must be initiated to increase awareness of people on antimicrobial resistance.
Insights
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health threat. This study found significant gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antimicrobial use in rural India, highlighting the need for public awareness programs.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Global Health
Background:
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global public health challenge.
- Understanding community knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine KAP regarding antimicrobial use and AMR in rural Indian communities.
- To identify specific areas of concern for targeted educational programs.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 1,003 participants from 25 villages in Tigiria, Odisha, India.
- Data collected via semi-structured questionnaires on electronic devices, covering demographics, antibiotic use, AMR awareness, healthcare utilization, and quality of life.
- Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and ANOVA.
Main Results:
- Only 44.47% of participants had heard of antimicrobial medicines.
- 14.75% purchased antibiotics over-the-counter without a prescription, and 20.14% did not complete their antibiotic course.
- Quality of life scores were significantly impacted, particularly in the physical domain, with variations across demographic factors.
Conclusions:
- The study revealed significant deficiencies in KAP concerning antimicrobial (mis)use.
- There is an urgent need to implement antimicrobial stewardship programs and educational initiatives to enhance public awareness of AMR.
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