Knowledge, attitude and practice on antibiotic use and resistance among the Italian population, 2019

Abstract

Abstract Background Public knowledge, awareness and behaviors related to antibiotic use and antimicrobial-resistance (AMR) are vital to ensure the prudent use of these drugs. In this work, we present the top-line results of the first national survey of AMR among the Italian general population aged ≥18 years. Methods From August to September 2019, we conducted a population-based cross-sectional random survey through mixed CATI/CAMI/CAWI methodologies among representative samples of the general population, parents of children aged 0-11 years, adults ≥65 years and pet's owners. Results were summarized using relative frequencies. Results Of 1,400 persons interviewed, 47% and 68% respectively correctly said that it is false that antibiotics kill viruses and are effective at treating colds and flu. More than 80% of respondents considered themselves to be well-informed about antibiotics but only one in two people knew what is meant by AMR. While the vast majority (96%) of respondents said that they obtained the last course of antibiotics that they used from a medical prescription, 11% incorrectly said that they stopped taking antibiotics when they felt better or that they used those left over from a previous course. In addition, 55% of pet's owners said they obtained antibiotics without a prescription from a pharmacy or elsewhere. Almost all respondents (97%) believed that it's everyone's responsibility to use antibiotics wisely, with the 80% who expressed concerns about the potential of AMR to affect themselves and their families; however, 40% did not think that action at an individual level is the most effective way of tackling resistance to antibiotics. Conclusions Our findings show some improvement in Italians' knowledge, awareness and behaviors related to antibiotic use and AMR but there are needs to be a greater sense of responsibility to take charge of the AMR problem. These results may be drivers of structured national awareness campaigns. Key messages In 2019, we conducted the first national survey of AMR among the Italian population: >80% of respondents felt themselves well-informed about antibiotics but only 1/2 people knew what is meant by AMR. Almost all Italian sample believed that it's everyone's responsibility to use antibiotics wisely, but 40% did not think that action at an individual level is effective to tackle AMR.