Antibiotic use and resistance: Awareness among students of Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University in Saudi Arabia

Background and purpose: Antibiotic misuse in Saudi Arabia is becoming an increasing concern. It leads to the development and acceleration of antibiotic resistance. One of the established approaches to tackle the problem is through improving public awareness of appropriate antibiotic use. This study examined the level of awareness of university students about the correct use of antibiotics and the issue of antibiotic resistance. Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed, using a self-administered online questionnaire that was sent to all students of Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Results: The total number of participants was 320 students, of whom 210 were female (65.6%) and 110 were male (34.4%). About a third (34.7%) of the students had poor knowledge regarding the fact that antibiotics should only be used for bacterial infections. In addition, just over half (50.0%–57.5%) of the students could not classify the common viral infections as antibiotic untreatable infections. On the other hand, the majority (84.1%) of the respondents were highly aware of the correct source and the correct use of antibiotic prescriptions. Similarly, 73.4% of students revealed a high awareness level of how to address the issue of antibiotic resistance. However, around one-third (35.3%) of them incorrectly thought that antibiotic-resistant bacteria cannot spread from one person to another. Conclusion: Establishing an educational intervention program is needed in Saudi universities to improve students' awareness of the specific conditions that can be treated with antibiotics. In addition, it is essential for students to know that antibiotic resistance can affect anyone, of any age, in any country, and that it can be accelerated by the improper use of antibiotics.