General population's knowledge, beliefs, and care-seeking behavior about antibiotics: a cross-sectional survey in Lao People's Democratic Republic

Abstract

Objective: To explore the knowledge and understanding of antibiotics among people in Vientiane capital, Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). Methods: A cross-sectional survey was performed using a self-administered questionnaire in 384 samples conveniently selected from residents of 3 districts of Vientiane capital including Sisattanak, Xaythany, and Sangthong. The questionnaires included the questions on knowledge and perception on antibiotics, behaviors on antibiotic uses, and their information sources of antibiotics. Results: About sixty-six percent of the participants misunderstood on the conditions that could be rationally treated with antibiotics. Seventy-four percent of them were aware that antibiotics could only be prescribed by physicians. In the past 3 months, approximately 85% of respondents self-medicated by obtaining drugs from pharmacy and 76% had been prescribed antibiotics to treat illnesses mainly common cold, sore throat and cough. Forty-two percent of them had completed antibiotics prescribed. Around 18% of participants were aware of the adverse drug reactions. Ninety-one percent and 92.6% of those in the urban and suburban districts, respectively, reported healthcare providers as the most common source of antibiotic information, while 94.9% of those in rural area reported their relatives or acquaintances as a common source of information. Conclusions: Misconception of antibiotic use is still highly prevalent in Lao PDR. Although people know the appropriate indications for antibiotics use, they do not comply to legal regulations when buying the drug, nor do they follow the instructions on the label. However, strict adherence to prescribed medication and knowledge on appropriate drug use need to be improved in order to prevent and reduce the incidence of antibiotic resistance.