Community-based intervention to address antibiotic resistance: protocol for an embedded mixed-methods intervention...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Microbiology
• One Health Approach

Background:

• Antibiotic resistance is a significant global health challenge, exacerbated by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in human and animal populations.
• A 'One Health' approach is crucial for mitigating antibiotic resistance, integrating human, animal, and environmental health strategies.
• There is a need for localized evidence on antibiotic resistance burden and community awareness in India, specifically in West Bengal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate evidence on the burden of antibiotic resistance in West Bengal.
• To assess community awareness and practices regarding proper antibiotic consumption.
• To develop and implement a novel behavioral intervention package to combat antibiotic resistance.

Main Methods:

• An embedded mixed-methods interventional community-based study design.
• The study will be conducted in the greater Kolkata region and West Medinipur district, targeting adults (≥18 years).
• A cluster-randomized controlled trial will implement a behavioral intervention package focusing on awareness and perceived risks of antibiotic resistance, supplemented by surveys, observations, interviews, and sample collection (human, animal, environmental).

Main Results:

• Data collection and analysis are ongoing.
• The study aims to provide empirical evidence on antibiotic resistance prevalence and the impact of the intervention.

Conclusions:

• The findings will inform public health strategies and policy recommendations for antibiotic stewardship in India.
• The novel intervention package is designed for potential integration into existing healthcare delivery systems.
• This study contributes to the 'One Health' framework for addressing antibiotic resistance in the Indian context.