Antibiotics Use among Saudi Population: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Purpose: Antibiotic resistance has become a worldwide issue, posing a significant threat to public health. The evidence has shown that the public plays a key role in the increase of antibiotic resistance. This study was designed to assess the awareness, attitude, and practice regarding antibiotic use among Saudis.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in May 2023 in Saudi Arabia by using an online questionnaire that was adapted from a previous study. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis, and chi-square test.

Result: A total of 572 participants were included in this study. Most of them were female and in the age group from above18 to 25-year-old. The result showed that the participants are highly aware with moderate attitude, and practice. Most of them were aware of the use of antibiotics. However, more than half thought that bacteria are germs that could cause the common cold and flu. There was a significant association between age and antibiotic use including awareness (p = .019), attitude (p = .001), and practice (p = .001). Whereas female participants had better practice than male participants (p < .001).

Value: This study showed that the participants had somewhat a good awareness with moderate attitude, and practice. Therefore, education initiatives and campaigns should be carried out for the population to change their behavior, and accordingly reduce antibiotic inappropriate usage and decrease misconceptions regarding the consequences of improper use of antibiotics.