STUDY OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE AT REGIONAL LEVEL

Abstract

The introduction of antibiotics revolutionized medicine, dramatically reducing deaths and illnesses caused by infections. However, decades of overuse have accelerated the evolution of microorganisms, leading to a critical challenge: antibiotic resistance. This research aims to investigate the regional risk factors contributing to antibiotic resistance among the Poltava region population. Materials and methods. 100 patients of the 2nd Municipal Clinical Hospital and the Regional (Republican) Center for Emergency Medical Aid and Disaster Medicine of Poltava were included in the study. Data collection was carried out from November 2023 to March 2024. Patients were offered a series of 11 questions. Research results. This study has revealed the following antibiotic usage patterns among the residents of the Poltava region. It has been found that 22% of respondents are currently undergoing treatment, 8% in the last month, 36% in the last year, and 34% of the respondents tool the treatment for more than a year. When using antibiotics without a prescription, 30% of patients consulted a pharmacy, 52% trusted the Internet, 10% chose the cheapest medicine, and 8% followed advertisements. For subsequent illnesses, 76% of respondents used antibiotics they had taken before: amoxicillin (42%), ciprofloxacin (28%), azithromycin (22%), and chloramphenicol (8%). While 80% reported following prescribed antibiotic regimens, 20% interrupted treatment prematurely due to perceived improvement. Despite 84% acknowledging the importance of completing antibiotic courses, a concerning 16% were unaware of this crucial practice. Interestingly, 11% reported using antibiotics for preventive purposes (before getting sick). However, a positive trend emerged: 85% of respondents confirmed undergoing testing for bacterial susceptibility before receiving antibiotics. Only 9% reported amoxicillin as ineffective. When antibiotics were ineffective, 46% of respondents consulted a doctor, 24% took no action and waited for the antibiotic to take effect, 21% stopped one antibiotic and started another, and 14% preferred intramuscular injections and self-medication. Conclusion. A significant number of patients (48%) take antibacterial drugs without a doctor's prescription and 52% search for information on the Internet. 76% of patients use the same drug for a recurrent disease. Amoxicillin is the most often preferred (42%), a smaller number of patients came to the pharmacy for ciprofloxacin (28%), 22% of respondents preferred azithromycin. This study underscores the necessity for public health interventions to tackle antibiotic misuse and misconceptions in the Poltava region. Promoting responsible usage, emphasizing the importance of completing treatment courses, and discouraging self-medication are crucial steps in combating the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.