Assessing antimicrobial use patterns in Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM) health facilities: A...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health threat, with Malawi experiencing high mortality rates attributed to it.
• Antibiotic misuse is a key driver of AMR, yet it remains under-researched within the Malawian context.
• Understanding antimicrobial use patterns is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate antimicrobial use patterns in Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM) facilities using health facility, prescribing, and patient indicators.
• To identify the prevalence, contributing factors, and geographical hotspots of irrational antimicrobial use in Malawi.
• To provide data-driven insights for the national antimicrobial stewardship action plan.

Main Methods:

• A multiple cross-sectional study design involving data collection from 22 health facilities, 660 prescriptions, and 303 patients.
• Data collection via KoboToolbox, with subsequent cleaning and coding in Microsoft Excel.
• Statistical analysis using STATA Version 14 and spatial analysis with ArcGIS Version 10.7.1 to map irrational antimicrobial use hotspots.

Main Results:

• The study will detail antimicrobial usage, costs relative to budgets, exposure intensity, availability, and patient understanding.
• It will identify the prevalence and drivers of irrational antimicrobial use.
• Geographical hotspots of irrational antimicrobial use will be mapped.

Conclusions:

• Findings will illuminate critical aspects of antimicrobial use in Malawi, highlighting areas of misuse.
• The study will provide essential evidence to inform and strengthen the national antimicrobial stewardship action plan.
• This research aims to contribute to safeguarding essential antimicrobials for future use.