Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Towards Antibiotic Use and Resistance Among Non-Medical University Students, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Antibiotic resistance (AR) is a global public health crisis, largely driven by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward AR among non-medical university students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and identify factors that influence antibiotic use.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 672 students from both public and private universities in Riyadh. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics and KAP regarding antibiotics.

Results: The findings indicated that 59.1% of students had sufficient knowledge of antibiotics, while 60% had positive attitudes, and 60.6% exhibited responsible practices. However, 40.9% of students demonstrated insufficient knowledge, and factors such as age, gender, and field of study significantly impacted KAP outcomes. Females had 65.8% higher odds of demonstrating a positive attitude toward AR prevention, compared to males, and 52% higher odds of adopting appropriate practices than males. The primary source of information on antibiotics was healthcare professionals, particularly doctors.

Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance awareness and promote the responsible use of antibiotics among university students, helping to mitigate the threat of antibiotic resistance.

Keywords: antibiotic misuse; antibiotic resistance; antibiotic stewardship; health literacy; multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs); public health education.

Figure 1

Sources of information about the participants’ antibiotic use.