Public knowledge and attitudes towards antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in vietnam: a cross-sectional study

TL;DR

This study explores public knowledge and attitudes about antibiotics and AMR in Vietnam, finding that while most have moderate to high knowledge, gaps remain, especially regarding agricultural use.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into public understanding of AMR in Vietnam, highlighting demographic influences and the need for targeted education.

Findings

90% of participants had moderate to high knowledge of antibiotics and AMR.

Only 32.8% knew that 75% of antibiotics are used in agriculture.

Healthcare professionals and those with health-related education had significantly higher knowledge levels.

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant public health threat. Understanding public knowledge and attitudes toward antibiotic usage is essential for educational campaigns combating AMR. This study evaluates public knowledge and awareness about antibiotics and AMR in Vietnam.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted online in December 2021, featuring 20 questions on antibiotics, AMR, and participants’ habits, attitudes, and potential solutions. The survey was distributed via social media platforms such as Facebook, Zalo, Viber, and WhatsApp. The target sample included Vietnamese working adults above 18 years old. Responses were coded and analyzed using SPSS version 21 and Microsoft Excel version 16.5. Participants were categorized into high, intermediate, and low knowledge levels based on their scores (>80%, 51–79%, and <50%).

A total of 866 Vietnamese adults participated. Most participants (90%) had moderate to high knowledge of antibiotics and AMR. However, only 32.8% knew that 75% of antibiotics are used in agriculture. Knowledge levels varied significantly across demographics such as gender, age, education, profession, and antibiotic use history. Healthcare-related professionals had significantly higher knowledge of antibiotics and AMR than nonhealthcare professionals (p < 0.001). Those with health-focused educational backgrounds also had higher knowledge levels (p < 0.001). Despite being aware that it was inappropriate, many participants reported discontinuing antibiotics before completing the course prescribed by their doctors.

Age, education, profession, and antibiotic use history positively influenced AMR knowledge. However, even among health-related fields, understanding was only moderate. This indicates a need for enhanced public education to improve knowledge and attitudes toward antibiotics and AMR.

Figures