Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Antibiotic Use Among Undergraduate Students: Implications for Antimicrobial Stewardship

Abstract

Antibiotic misuse and overuse have accelerated the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, posing a significant threat to global public health. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotic use among undergraduate students at Davao Oriental State University and to determine differences by demographic characteristics. The study used a descriptive-comparative research design with proportional stratified sampling, and 387 students participated. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire with acceptable reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.785) and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests, including t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey post hoc analysis. Results revealed that respondents generally demonstrated high knowledge (M = 2.80), positive attitudes (M = 3.05), and high practices (M = 2.98) toward antibiotic use. No significant differences emerged across sex, age, year level, and prior education in most cases; however, faculty affiliation showed significant differences across all KAP domains. Despite generally favorable attitudes and practices, gaps in fundamental knowledge persist. These findings underscore the need for targeted, faculty-specific educational interventions to improve antibiotic literacy and promote responsible antibiotic use, thereby supporting efforts to mitigate antimicrobial resistance.