antibiotic misuse

The widespread antibiotic resistance has posed a significant threat to global health and safety, partly owing to the irrational and excessive use of these essential drugs. In light of this, a comprehensive study was conducted among university students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to evaluate the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) regarding antibiotic use. This article explores the findings of this cross-sectional study, highlighting the discrepancies between medical students (MS) and non-medical students (NS) and suggesting improvements for educational programs on antibiotic stewardship. The study, published in BMC Public Health, provides vital insights into the KAP of antibiotic use among the youth, potentially guiding policymakers and educators in tackling antimicrobial resistance.

Background and Methodology

The study, spearheaded by Ammar A. Jairoun and fellow researchers from the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at Ajman University, incorporated a self-administered questionnaire to assess KAP among 1200 MS and NS. It aimed to span the gaps in knowledge and self-medication practices that contribute to the rising antibiotic resistance. The questionnaire was meticulously designed based on previous research to ensure content validity (Polit et al., 2007; Lawshe, 1975; Tilden et al., 1990). Ethical considerations were explicitly addressed, including voluntary participation and informed consent.

Findings and Discussions

Statistical analyses revealed significant differences between MS and NS in terms of KAP scores. MS showed a profound understanding and responsible attitude towards antibiotic use, reflecting their academic background in health sciences. These findings were consistent with the knowledge that medical curricula include comprehensive education on antibiotics and their prudent use (Abbo et al., 2013; Minen et al., 2010).

Conversely, NS displayed a lower level of KAP about antibiotic use. This disparity indicates potential risks of misuse and self-medication among the general student population, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness programs across non-medical faculties (Nyquist et al., 1998; Azevedo et al., 2009).

The study’s inference is unambiguous: while attitude scores were relatively high, indicating a positive disposition towards correct antibiotic use, knowledge and practice did not parallel this enthusiasm. There exists a disconnection between the awareness of the antibiotic resistance crisis and the actual behavior concerning antibiotic usage among university students, particularly those outside the medical field.

Recommendations

The research underscores a pressing need to integrate antibiotic education into all aspects of university curricula, particularly targeting NS who are at a higher risk of antibiotic misuse due to a lack of proper knowledge.

Educational institutions should consider comprehensive modules on antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic stewardship embedded within various programs. Such reforms can significantly contribute to curbing antibiotic misuse at the community level (Humphreys et al., 2006; Ibia et al., 2005).

The role of medical educators is pivotal in ensuring that future prescribers adhere to the principles of antibiotic stewardship. Advances in medical education indicate that an active learning approach may galvanize a more profound understanding of antibiotic stewardship among healthcare professionals in training (Abbo et al., 2013; Minen et al., 2010).

Furthermore, public health campaigns targeting young adults, particularly university students, could be instrumental in fostering responsible antibiotic practices. In a digital era where information dissemination through social media platforms is highly efficacious, leveraging these avenues could prove beneficial in raising awareness among the masses (Scaioli et al., 2015; Shehadeh et al., 2012).

Policy Recommendations and Conclusion

This study opened up discussions on KAP of antibiotic use among university students, illuminating the differences in understanding between MS and NS in the context of the UAE. The results highlight the need for intervention strategies in educational systems and public health campaigns to foster a culture of responsible antibiotic use.

Such initiatives could significantly contribute to stemming the tide of antibiotic resistance, ensuring the continued efficacy of these critical medications. Strategic public health policies incorporating educational and awareness programs could act as a bulwark against the ever-mounting challenge of antibiotic resistance, safeguarding future generations.

References

DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-6878-y

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3. Dantas, G., & Sommer, M. (2014). How to fight back against antibiotic resistance. American Scientist, 102(1), 41-51. doi: 10.1511/2014.106.42.
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Keywords

1. Antibiotic use knowledge UAE
2. Medical students antibiotic resistance
3. Antibiotic stewardship education
4. Antibiotic misuse prevention
5. University students health practices