Self-medication practice in Shabwah Governorate, Yemen: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Self-medication is common in developing countries. In Yemen, there is little data on the prevalence of self-medication and possible factors influencing this practice. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of self-medication and to explore the attitude, knowledge, and practice of self-medication in Shabwah Governorate, Yemen.This cross-sectional study was conducted in Shabwa Governorate, Yemen from January 1, 2024 to March 31, 2024. Approximately 385 households within the governorate areas were selected through systematic random sampling. Permission to conduct this study was obtained from local authorities as there is no research committee in the governorate.A total of 385 study participants were recruited with a response rate of 100% (N = 385). The prevalence of self-medication in this study was 69.9%. The most common reason for self-medication was time-saving 180 (66.9%), followed by cost-saving 137 (50.9%). The main indication for self-medication was fever/cough 214 (79.6%), followed by skin problems 140 (52.0%), while the most commonly used self-medication was antibiotics. Most 220 participants (81.8%) were unaware of the side effects before self-medication.Self-medication has become a significant health and well-being problem in Shabwah Governorate, which has been exacerbated by the current situation in the country. In this study, the prevalence of self-medication was 69.9%. We recommend investigating self-medication practices across the country to generalize our findings and help health authorities formulate their policies on the rational use of medicines in the country and raise awareness among the population about the disadvantages of self-medication.