Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Medical Student towards Antibiotic Resistance and Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs: A Cross-Sectional

This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) concerning antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among medical students, a crucial group in fighting the global menace of AMR. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, an electronic questionnaire was administered to explore diverse facets of antibiotics and AMR. Conducted from January to April 2023, the survey collected 340 responses that were subsequently analyzed through statistical software. The results revealed significant gaps in the KAP of medical students, aligning with worldwide trends. Notable misconceptions included the misguided belief in the safety of daily antibiotic use and the incorrect assumption that proper consumption eliminates the risk of AMR. Alarmingly, a substantial number of students acquired antibiotics from unregulated sources, such as friends or family. The study concludes that an urgent curriculum revision in medical education is needed, with a focus on the mechanisms and judicious use of antibiotics. This research serves as a clarion call to educators, policymakers and healthcare leaders to collaboratively tackle this public health crisis by adequately preparing future physicians.