DOI: https://doi.org/10.47648/jswmc2026v16-1-139
* Rashel ATM, Kairi TK, Chowdhury MJ, Hussain A, Ferdoush N5, Munalisa TA, Rifat TA7, Dey S
Abstract:
Background: Antibiotic resistance remains a pressing global health concern, driven largely by public misconceptions and inappropriate antibiotic use. This study aimed to assess knowledge, awareness, and practices related to antibiotics and AMR among patients at a tertiary care center in Bangladesh.
Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from February to March 2025 at Sylhet Women's Medical College, involving 391 adult patients selected through convenient sampling. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic, antibiotic knowledge, antibiotic resistance awareness, and antibiotic usage practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.
Results: Among participants, 66.8% demonstrated good antibiotic knowledge, though substantial misconceptions persisted. Only 5.1% correctly rejected the use of antibiotics for viral infections, and 64.7% mistakenly believed it acceptable to use antibiotics prescribed to family members. About 71.1% had received resistance-related information in the past year, predominantly from doctors (58.6%), and 81.1% reported changing their perceptions following this information. Although 94.9% adhered to prescribed regimens strictly on time daily, 23% discontinued antibiotics when they felt well, and 74.9% reported using antibiotics as prophylaxis. Knowledge levels were significantly higher among males, those with higher education, service workers, and individuals connected to the healthcare sector (p<0.05). Factors such as age, income, residence, and chronic illness showed no significant association.