A Survey of Community Perceptions and Knowledge Toward Antibiotic Resistance: Case Study in Magelang, Indonesia

Abstract

One of the main causes of antibiotic resistance is the unprescription dispensing of antibiotics, which can result in the improper use of antibiotics. The purpose of a self-administered questionnaire-based study was to gauge participants’ understanding and opinions regarding antibiotic resistance. In October 2019, a cross-sectional descriptive survey was self-administered to individuals. For this survey, Total of 455 respondents were used. Respondents who were residing in Magelang, spoke Indonesian, and were older than eighteen were the inclusion criteria. Six sections made up the questionnaire: demographic information; five questions about general antibiotic resistance information; five questions about the advantages of antibiotics; three questions about prescription antibiotics; four questions about using antibiotics personally; and five questions about antibiotic knowledge. Data analysis were used SPSS version 21, research data is treated as a descriptive analysis. The results show that majority of respondents have the perception that antibiotics are the best choice for treating fever (26.5%), 72.3% of participants are aware of antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, 53.8% of respondents said they completely trusted medical experts’ advice. Health professionals have a greater responsibility to alert the public about antibiotic use and resistance. In conclusion, it is important to increase knowledge about antibiotic resistance because it concerns the general public’s opinion regarding antibiotic resistance and their level of awareness of the risks associated with it. Ultimately, this can change people’s attitudes and actions to use antibiotics wisely.