(271) Knowledge, attitude, and practices of pharmacy students in seven Middle Eastern countries concerning antimicrobial resistance

Background: Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of pharmacy students in Middle Eastern countries regarding antimicrobial resistance is vital. It helps identify gaps in education, improve antibiotic stewardship, inform policy, and ensures future pharmacists contribute effectively to global efforts in combating antimicrobial resistance, safeguarding public health.

Objectives: The aim of this study is to examine knowledge, attitude, and practices of pharmacy students in seven Middle Eastern countries concerning antimicrobial resistance

Methods: Between March 2021 and January 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing an online survey tool at universities in Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait. We solicited participation from pharmacy students enrolled in the school of pharmacy at the participating universities. The study population was comprised of all undergraduate pharmacy students from participating universities. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for being more knowledgeable about antibiotic resistance.

Results: A total of 4,265 pharmacy students were involved in this study (Egypt (2,249), Jordan (n= 704), Saudi Arabia (n=531), Lebanon (n= 401), United Araba Emirates (n= 130), Qatar (n= 129), and Kuwait (n= 121)).
The median knowledge score for the participating pharmacy students was 5.00 (IQR= 4.00-6.00) out of 7, which is equal to 71.4%. There was statistically significant difference in the median antibiotic knowledge score between students based on their countries, gender, years of study, and program of study (p < 0.05). Using binary regression analysis to predict which demographic variable is associated with higher odds of being knowledgeable about antibiotics resistance, we found that fourth, and fifth year students and bachelor of pharmacy program students have higher odds of being more knowledgeable about antibiotics resistance compared to other students (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Students of pharmacy in the Middle East exhibited a moderate degree of knowledge regarding antibiotic resistance. Students in their fourth and fifth years, in addition to those enrolled in the bachelor of pharmacy program, exhibited a greater understanding of antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic consumption was a subject of concern for the majority of students, who advocated for greater knowledge and oversight of antibiotic usage across multiple sectors. By implementing focused educational interventions and policy measures, it is possible to further promote responsible antibiotic practices and make a valuable contribution to the worldwide battle against antimicrobial resistance.