Awareness on antibiotic resistance among lay people in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Background: Antibiotic resistance as a direct consequence of inappropriate use of antibiotics is one of the biggest public health problems. This study aimed to assess knowledge and awareness by the general public in Yogyakarta regarding antibiotics and antibiotic resistance, and to determine its� associated socio-demographic factors. Methods: A cross sectional study using survey design was conducted. The questionnaire was developed according to WHO Multi-country awareness survey. All participants had to be older than 18 years old and have received prescription of antibiotic previously. The questionnaire consisted of three sections, i.e. socio-demographic factors, knowledge of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance, and awareness of antibiotic resistance. Scores on questions and data were presented descriptively, and statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square test to evaluate the influence of variables on knowledge and awareness of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance. Results: Of 125 respondents, 53.6 respondents had low level knowledge on antibiotics use and antibiotic resistance, and incorrectly believed that antibiotic resistance occurs when their body becomes resistant to antibiotics (84.8) despite the majority confessed their source of information on antibiotics was derived from medical professionals (78.4). The vast majority of respondents were already known that they had to purchase antibiotics in pharmacies with prescription (82.4) but only 34.4 of them knew that antibiotic resistance is not only a problem for people who take antibiotics regularly. A cumulative 51.2 respondents had low level of awareness on antibiotic resistance. Socio-demographic factors such as age, place of residence, education level, employment status, and level of income significantly influenced the level of knowledge and awareness towards antibiotics and antibiotic resistance. Conclusion: The overall level of knowledge and awareness regarding antibiotics use and antibiotic resistance among residents in Yogyakarta is low. It would be necessary to initiate public health awareness intervention program with clearer information about antibiotics use and antibiotic resistance. © 2020 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.