# Minding the knowledge-action gap: Results from a mixed-methods study of antimicrobial use among dairy farmers in central Uganda

## TL;DR

This study explores how dairy farmers in Uganda use antimicrobials and finds that knowledge alone doesn't lead to better practices, suggesting a need for behavior-focused interventions.

## Contribution

The study introduces the concept of a 'knowledge-action gap' in antimicrobial use among Ugandan dairy farmers and advocates for behavior-centred approaches.

## Key findings

- Farmers' antimicrobial use is influenced by attitudes toward veterinarians and access barriers.
- Knowledge of AMR is weakly linked to prudent antimicrobial practices.
- Private veterinarians are key contacts for farmers, suggesting a need to involve them in stewardship efforts.

## Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a growing threat to global health and food security, accelerated by human behaviours such as suboptimal use patterns. While the negative consequences of AMR will be particularly severe in low- and middle-income countries, relatively little is known about the extent and frequency of behaviours that contribute to AMR in these regions. This mixed-methods study, which included a cross-sectional survey, examines knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antimicrobial use (AMU) among 417 smallholder dairy farmers in Uganda’s Wakiso, Kampala, and Mukono districts. We found that (1) farmers’ AMU practices were associated with attitudes toward veterinarians and access barriers, with many relying on private veterinarians due to challenges accessing public animal health services; and; and (2) findings support the concept of a ‘knowledge-action gap,’ as AMR knowledge and belief items were weakly associated with prudent antimicrobial use and related practices in our exploratory models, These findings highlight the need to rethink the current reliance on conventional knowledge-attitude-practice (KAP) interventions alone. Instead, behaviour-centred approaches informed by theory-driven behaviour change frameworks, along with interdisciplinary collaboration, may offer more profound insight into the multifaceted factors that shape AMR-associated practices and inform more tailored interventions. Finally, given the prominent role of private veterinary service providers as trusted points of contact for farmers, there is a clear need to foster partnerships that formally recognise and engage these actors in stewardship efforts while ensuring alignment with national policy and regulatory oversight.