Knowledge, attitude, and practice toward nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs among osteoarthritis patients: a cross-sectional study

Background Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are common drugs in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). NSAIDs are generally used at home by patients, without supervision, requiring proper knowledge and attitudes for correct practice. This study investigated the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of patients with OA toward NSAIDs. Methods This cross-sectional study enrolled patients with OA at the Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University between January and March 2024. The KAP scores and demographic information of respondents were collected through a self-designed questionnaire. Results There were 645 participants, with 579 (89.8%) over 45 years old and 394 (61.1%) females. The average scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 16.26 +/- 3.79 (possible range: 0-24), 18.12 +/- 1.99 (possible range: 5-35), and 29.20 +/- 5.52 (possible range: 10-50), respectively. The structural equation model (SEM) found that for individuals currently using NSAIDs, the attitude had a direct effect on practice (beta = 0.978, P < 0.001). For individuals not using NSAIDs, the attitude had a direct effect on practice (beta = 0.936, P < 0.001). Conclusion This study suggested that adequate NSAID knowledge is the prerequisite for correct NSAID-related medical decisions, while attitude has a crucial intermediary effect. Healthcare professionals and society should strengthen education regarding the relevant knowledge of NSAIDs and guide the cultivation of positive attitudes toward NSAIDs.