National online survey of Filipinos’ knowledge, attitude and awareness of antibiotic use and resistance: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Globally, the number of cases and deaths associated with antibiotic resistance increases yearly. In the Philippines, studies on antibiotic resistance remain underreported. Thus, this study examined Filipinos’ knowledge, attitude and awareness and the associated predictive variables to their antibiotic use and resistance. Methods A population-based, cross-sectional and predictive approach guided this study. Convenience sampling of 3767 participants was recruited through social media and completed the Eurobarometer survey on antibiotic resistance from July 2021 to January 2022. Chi-square test and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Key findings A relatively average number of the participants have a general idea about the common types of antibiotics available. Males and health care workers had a higher percentage of correct responses on antibiotic resistance knowledge. Most participants had low knowledge levels of antibiotic resistance (n = 1911, 50.7%). Age, educational attainment, profession, antibiotic use within the last 12 months, and having household members taking antibiotics were significant predictors of the level of knowledge on antibiotic resistance (P-value < 0.05). There was a significant difference in participants’ gender, age and educational status in their attitudes on the acquisition, hygienic practices and role of health professionals in antibiotic resistance (P-value < 0.05). Conclusions Government agencies and policymakers should consider the identified predictors when establishing policies on antibiotic resistance. This will ensure that antibiotic use is both safe and effective.