Family self-medication and antibiotics abuse for children and juveniles in a Chinese city

Modeling and scientific analysis of pediatric medication evaluation based on MDM-DEA-Malmquist model: construction of health management in pediatrics in developing countries

BACKGROUND

The developing countries represented by China have huge population potential and child population. However, due to economic and social development constraints, pediatrics need help regarding resources and technology. The level of pediatric medical care remains inadequate.

METHODS

This article constructs an MDM matrix framework for the pediatric medical nursing level. Combining the lean model theory, the key indicators of children's medical care are analyzed. Thus, it helps medical institutions scientifically evaluate and guide pediatric nursing. Based on the linkage extension of the MDM model and the DEA-Malmquist model, an evaluation system was established to reflect the current situation of pediatric drug use in China. The study used provincial indicator data on pediatric medication in China from 2015 to 2021.

RESULTS

We found that indicators such as physician literacy, health records, child status, and parental awareness were the most important under different medication cycles and goals. The importance of pre-administration evaluation was as high as 53.5%, and the importance of post-administration evaluation was only 13.7%. The efficacy of pediatric medication in developed provinces was significantly optimized. The input-output structure of pediatric medication in superior provinces was consistent with the feedback sequence of the MDM matrix.

CONCLUSIONS

This indicates that the evaluation results of the MDM matrix have guiding significance for optimizing pediatric medication efficacy. This paper aims to help developing countries establish an optimized pediatric medication evaluation system and improve the pediatric healthcare environment.

Parental Awareness Towards Antibiotic Use for Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Children

Background A common ineffective practice in pediatric care is the prescribing of antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), which are typically caused by viruses. Behaviors of community members and their knowledge about antibiotic use is one of the major and modifiable factors contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of antibiotic use among parents for URTIs in pediatric patients. Methodology This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study included 384 parents of children. Their demographic data and knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding the use of antibiotics in URTI in pediatric patients and self-medication were evaluated using a structured validated 5-point Likert scale-based questionnaire by interviewing them and analyzed using appropriate statistical tests. Results Out of 384 participants, 191 (49.74%) were between 30 and 40 years of age, with a male preponderance, 228 (59.38%). Of the participants, 205 (53.39%) did not know whether antibiotics should be given to all children who develop fever, 228 (59.38%) agreed that most URTIs are self-limited, and 222 (57.8%) were unaware of the side effects of antibiotics. Overall, 209 (54.4%) parents would not request an antibiotic prescription from a doctor and 80 (20.9%) parents changed the pediatrician if they prescribed antibiotic at each visit for their child; 337 (87.7%) parents stated that they strictly follow their doctors' recommendations for the use of antibiotics, 142 (36.97%) parents practice self-medication with antibiotics, the most common source of information was previous prescription, 259 (67.45%), and the most frequent site for procurement was pharmacy store, 275 (71.6%). Major reasons identified for self-medication were perception of URTI as a very simple problem not requiring doctor consultation, 124 (32.4%), followed by unaffordability of costs for a doctor visit and treatment 70 (18.2%). Scores of knowledge about antibiotic use in URTI were significantly associated with parents' age, education level, and socioeconomic class (p<0.05), while scores of attitude were only significantly associated with socioeconomic class (p<0.5). Practices towards antibiotic use were found to be significantly associated with socioeconomic class and number of children (p<0.05). Conclusion Findings of the study show that there is a lack of proper knowledge, attitude, and practices for the use of antimicrobials among parents for URTIs in children. Awareness programs targeting parents for the use of antibiotics and legislative actions for the sale of antibiotics together can help in improving rational use of medicines and contribute to the prevention of AMR.

Assessment of inappropriate use of antibiotics and contributing factors in Awi Administrative Zone, Northwestern Amhara regional State, Ethiopia

Objectives

Antibiotic misuse is regarded as the single most significant factor contributing to resistance. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and risk variables linked to the inappropriate use of antibiotics in urban and rural districts of the Awi administrative zone community.

Methods

A total of 1194 rural and urban families, including individuals of various ages and genders from the study area were selected by a multistage stratified random sampling method for a comparative cross-sectional study conducted between December 2022 and June 2023. SPSS version 26 was used to analyze the gathered data. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis methods were used to identify the variables linked to the incorrect use of antibiotics. The adjusted odds ratio was used to calculate the statistical significance of the correlation at a significance level of 5 %.

Results

The findings revealed that, in urban and rural regions, 57.5 % and 69.5 % of the households used unsafe antibiotic practices. The logistic regression analysis showed a significant relationship between the inappropriate use of antibiotics and the household head's age, marital status, family size, monthly income, occupation, educational attainment, place of residence, knowledge of antibiotics, and practice of using antibiotics.

Conclusion

The study area has inappropriate antibiotic use, with statistically significant differences between urban and rural communities. Extensive educational (knowledge and practice) interventions are required to enhance the appropriate use of antibiotics. To guarantee that antibiotics are dispensed correctly and that the right information is provided regarding how the antibiotic functions and should be used, authorized entities should strengthen their regulatory enforcement at pharmacies.

Non-prescription antibiotic use and its predictors among children in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Globally antibiotics are among the most commonly used drugs. Non-prescription use of antibiotics is a major factor for the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance one of the top global public health and development threats. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to assess non-prescription antibiotic use and predictors among children in Low and middle-income countries.A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted from PubMed, Scopus and HINARI to identify primary studies published between 2000 and 2024. Observational studies conducted among children ≤ 18 years old and published in English language were included in the review. After screening, the studies were assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool and data were extracted using a checklist. Heterogeneity was assessed using forest plot, Chocran's Q Test and I2. The random effects meta-analysis model was employed to pool the prevalence of non-prescription antibiotic use among children in low-and middle-income countries. Sub-group analysis and meta-regression were performed to identify the sources of heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots with Egger's test.The review was conducted among 32 cross-sectional studies with a sample size of 80,133 participants. The pooled prevalence of non-prescription antibiotic use among children in low-and middle-income countries was 38.86% (95% CI 34.32, 43.40; P < 0.0001) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 99.38%, p < 0.001). The prevalence of non-prescribed antibiotic use among studies conducted in upper middle-income countries (30.85% (24.49%, 37.21%)) was low when compared to studies conducted in LMICs (44.00% (37.72%, 52.09%). Penicillin was the most often antibiotic class used without prescription, while upper respiratory infections were the most prevalent illness/symptoms that prompted non-prescription antibiotic use.The pooled prevalence of non-prescription antibiotic use among children in low-and middle-income countries is high indicating that two out of five children used non-prescribed antibiotics. This review is important for international organizations, ministry of health of the low-and middle- income countries, regulatory bodies and researchers.

The Role of Uncertainty and Negative Emotion in Chinese Parents' Self-Medication of Children with Antibiotics

Parents self-medicating their children with antibiotics (SMA) without consulting healthcare professionals is a common practice in China. Previous research has focused primarily on examining the socioeconomic factors that contribute to the prevalence of SMA. This study adopts and extends the theory of planned behavior to understand the cognitive and emotional factors that are associated with parental SMA in China. The responses to an online survey were collected from 961 parents of children aged 6-12 years old, primarily from Gansu, Shandong, and Shaanxi provinces. More than half of the participants (66.5%) engaged in parental SMA. Amoxicillin, Cephradine, and Azithromycin were the most frequently selected antibiotics used for children. Structural equation modeling showed that uncertainty was positively associated with negative emotions, which were in turn positively associated with attitude toward SMA. Uncertainty was also negatively associated with perceived behavioral control (PBC), but the association between PBC and SMA behavior was not significant. Attitude and subjective norm were both positively associated with SMA behavior. The relationship between subjective norm and attitude was also positive. Understanding the psychological factors driving parental SMA may inform tailored interventions to promote responsible antibiotic use among parents.

Self-medication in children aged 0-12 years in Brazil: a population-based study

OBJETIVE

Studies have shown that the practice of self-medicating children occurs worldwide and is independent of the country's economic level, medication policies, or access to health services. This study aimed to estimate and characterize the prevalence of self-medication in the Brazilian population of children aged up to 12 years.

METHODS

We analyzed the data of 7528 children aged up to 12 years whose primary caregivers responded to the National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines in Brazil (PNAUM), a cross-sectional population-based study conducted in 245 Brazilian municipalities. The prevalence of self-medication was defined as the use of at least one medication without a doctor's or dentist's indication 15 days before the interview.

RESULTS

The prevalence of self-medication was 22.2% and was more frequent in older children belonging to poorer families and without health insurance. The acute conditions for which there was a higher frequency of self-medication were pain, fever, and cold/allergic rhinitis. Analgesics/antipyretics stood out among the most used medications for self-medication.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of self-medication to treat acute conditions was high in Brazilian children sampled in PNAUM, emphasizing the management of common symptoms such as pain, fever, and cold/allergic rhinitis in this age group. These findings reinforce the need for educational actions aimed at parents and caregivers.

Antibiotic Prescription Patterns for Acute Respiratory Infections in Rural Primary Healthcare Settings in Guangdong, China: Analysis of 162,742 Outpatient Prescriptions

Overuse and inappropriate use of antibiotics are important contributors to bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR), especially in ambulatory primary healthcare (PHC) settings in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to investigate antibiotic prescription patterns among patients with acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in rural PHC facilities in the Guangdong Province, China. A total of 444,979 outpatient prescriptions were extracted from the electronic medical record system of 35 township health centers (THCs) and 2 community health centers (CHCs) between November 2017 and October 2018. We used the chi-square test to analyze the antibiotic prescription patterns and binary logistic regression to explore patient-related factors associated with antibiotic prescriptions. Of the 162,742 ARI prescriptions, 85.57% (n = 139,259) included at least one antibiotic. Among the 139,259 prescriptions with antibiotics, 37.82% (n = 52,666) included two or more antibiotics, 55.29% (n = 76,993) included parenteral antibiotics, and 56.62% (n = 78,852) included Watch group antibiotics. The binary logistic regression indicated that (1) female patients were slightly less likely to be prescribed antibiotics than males (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.954, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.928-0.981]; p = 0.001); and (2) compared to patients aged ≤5 years, those who were 6-15 years old (adjusted OR = 1.907, 95% CI [1.840-1.978]; p < 0.001), 16-60 years old (adjusted OR = 1.849, 95% CI [1.785-1.916]; p < 0.001), and >60 years old (adjusted OR = 1.915, 95% CI [1.810-2.026]; p < 0.001) were more likely to be prescribed antibiotics. The overuse and irrational use of antibiotics in PHC settings remain major healthcare challenges in rural Guangdong. Thus, it is imperative to implement targeted antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) policies to address this problem.

Global trend of antimicrobial resistance in common bacterial pathogens in response to antibiotic consumption

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing public health threat worldwide and antibiotic consumption is being increasingly recognized as the main selective pressure driving this resistance. However, global trend in antibiotic resistance in response to antibiotic consumption is not fully understood. In this study, we collected national resistance data on specific resistant pathogens considered by the World Health Organization (WHO) as priority and antibiotic consumption data for 61 countries to assess the global trends in antibiotic resistance of those common bacterial pathogens and their association with antibiotic consumption. The low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) represented the largest hotspots of resistance, which presented relatively higher resistance rates in common bacterial pathogens but lower antibiotic consumption rates compared to high-income countries (HICs). Specifically, we developed the Normalized Antibiotic Resistance/Consumption Index (NARCI) and produced global maps of NARCI to roughly assess the appropriateness of antibiotic consumption across countries and to indicate the potentially inappropriate antibiotic consumption in LMICs compared with HICs. Additionally, we linked antibiotic consumption rates and resistance rates of target pathogens, in conjunction with NARCI and the correlation analysis between antibiotic use and resistance, to inform strategies to alleviate the threat of antibiotic resistance worldwide.

Antibiotics Self Medication among Children: A Systematic Review

The phenomenon of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a rapidly growing global problem. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics as well as self-prescription are among the most important causes contributing to the growth of antibiotic resistance in humans. This systematic review describes the phenomenon of antibiotics self-medication (ASM) in children. The study was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist by searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science until July 2022. Published English language studies containing information regarding parents knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors in self-administration of antibiotics in children were included. A total of 702 articles were identified, and 57 were selected. A higher prevalence of ASM among children was found in the Middle-East (34%), Africa (22%), Asia (20%) and South America (17%), while the lowest prevalence was found in Europe (8%). High distance from hospital, and low income, such as having more than one child, are related with an increased risk of ASM in children. Fever and cough can also promote the misuse of antibiotics by parents. A greater attention to the regulation of the sale of antimicrobial drugs can certainly limit the risk of self-medicating behavior.

Pre-Visit Use of Non-Prescribed Antibiotics among Child Patients in China: Prevalence, Predictors, and Association with Physicians’ Prescribing of Antibiotics at Medical Visits

Antibiotic resistance is one of the most serious global public health crises. Inappropriate use of antibiotics is an important contributor. Using a cross-sectional survey, we recruited 3056 caregivers from 21 provinces in China to complete a questionnaire pertaining to their most recent medical visits for children’s acute respiratory tract infection (ARTI) symptoms in October 2013. The findings show that the prevalence of caregivers giving children non-prescribed antibiotics before their medical visit was as high as 38%. Caring for an older child and having lower educational attainment increased the likelihood of self-medication with antibiotics; among Chinese residential areas, caregivers living in tier 2 urban districts were most likely to administer non-prescribed antibiotics before their visit. Physicians’ prescribing of antibiotics was significantly associated with caregivers’ self-reported pre-visit use of non-prescribed antibiotics. Misuse should be addressed by regulating the sale of antibiotics and improving communication at medical consultations.

A Five-Year Retrospective Study of 746 Cases with Maxillofacial Space Infection in Western China

Purpose

To grasp the current epidemiological situation of maxillofacial space infection and investigate the risk factors contributing to the longer hospitalization of odontogenic space infection in western China.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective study collected the clinical characteristics from 746 hospitalized patients with maxillofacial space infection and investigated the risk factors associated with longer hospitalization. Pearson’s chi-square test and multivariable binary logistic regression were performed for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 438 males and 308 females were included in this study, aging from 1 to 90 years (mean age 48.6 years). 74.9% cases resulted from odontogenic infections, with the submandibular space being the most commonly involved space (53.7%). Advanced age (OR (>60 y:19–60 y:≤18 y) = 3.784:3.416:1, p < 0.05), treatment before admission (OR = 2.271, p < 0.05) and number of involved spaces (OR (≥4:2–3:1) = 3.204:1.931:1, p < 0.05) were closely related to longer hospitalization. Streptococcus being the most frequently found aerobic bacteria (268/615, 43.6%) of all the bacteria isolated was resistant to clarithromycin (91.5%) and erythromycin (92.8%).

Conclusion

Hospitalization time could be longer for patients with the identified risk factors. Streptococcus, as the most common type of aerobic flora, is highly resistant to clindamycin and erythromycin.

Bringing Medicine from Pakistan and Self-Medication Among Pakistani Mothers in New Zealand

Worldwide migration leads to people bringing beliefs and practices from one country into another, including those related to self-medication. This study explores the self-medication practices of Pakistani mothers for their children and their reasons for self-medication. We interviewed 23 immigrants. Each interview lasted 60-80 min and was conducted in Urdu. Participants had been living in New Zealand on average 3.25 years. They talked about their prior knowledge and experiences regarding self-medication behaviour for their children. The majority of the mothers treat their children at home before visiting a general practitioner (GP) due to previous unsatisfactory experiences. There was a significant relationship between participants who had family members in healthcare professions, their experiences of healthcare services and self-medication. Bringing medicines from Pakistan is a key source for self-medication practices. Self-medication awareness programs could help mothers to practice safe and responsible use of medicines for the benefit of their children.

A Correlation Study of the Microbiota Between Oral Cavity and Tonsils in Children With Tonsillar Hypertrophy

Tonsillar hypertrophy is a common disease in 3-to-6-year-old children, which may cause serve symptoms like airway obstruction. Microbiological factors play an important role in the etiology of tonsillar hypertrophy. As the starting point of digestive and respiratory tracts, the microbial composition of the oral cavity is not only unique but also closely related to the resident microbiota in other body sites. Here we reported a correlation study of the microbiota between oral cavity and tonsils in children with tonsillar hypertrophy. Saliva, supragingival plaque, and wiped samples from the tonsil surface were collected from both tonsillar hypertrophy patients and participants with healthy tonsils and were then analyzed using Illumina Miseq Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. In the tonsillar hypertrophic state, more genera were detected on the tonsil surface than in the tonsil parenchyma, with more intra-microbiota correlations. When tonsillar hypertrophy occurred, both the oral cavity and tonsil surface endured microbiome shift with increased genera category and more active bacterial interactions. Over half of the newly detected genera from the tonsillar hypertrophic state were associated with infection and inflammation process or exhibited antibiotic-resistant characters. Of each individual, the microbial composition and structure of saliva seemed more similar to that of the tonsil surface, compared with the supragingival plaque. In salivary microbiota, genus Johnsonella might be relative with the healthy state of tonsils, while Pseudoxanthomonas might be relative with tonsillar hypertrophy. Our study supported the link between oral microbiota with the healthy and hypertrophic states of tonsils and may provide new directions for future researches in the specific role of oral microbiota in the etiology of tonsil diseases.

Non-prescription antibiotic use for cough among Chinese children under 5 years of age: a community-based cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the non-prescription use of antibiotics for cough among children under 5 years in China.

DESIGN

A community-based cross-sectional survey.

SETTING

A face-to-face interview based on a standard questionnaire in the community from October to December 2019.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 3102 children under 5 years of age were enrolled with probability proportionate to size sampling method. The children's caregivers provided the responses as their agents.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Cough in the past month, non-prescription use of antibiotics after cough.

RESULTS

1211 of 3102 children were reported to have a cough in the past month. Of these, 40.2% (487/1211) were medicated with antibiotics, and 18.7% (91/487) of these were not prescribed. Cephalosporins were the most frequently used antibiotic (52.8%), and community pharmacies were the main source (53.7%). Children who coughed for 1-2 weeks (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.90) or 3-4 weeks (OR 2.39, 95% CI 1.08 to 4.97), with runny nose (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.13 to 3.19) or those whose family annual income between ¥50 000 and ¥100 000 (OR 4.44, 95% CI 1.52 to 18.95) had a higher risk of non-prescription use of antibiotics than those coughing for <1 week, without runny nose or with family annual income <¥50 000.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicated that a high proportion of infants and young children had been treated with antibiotics for cough, and nearly one in five of them were used without prescription. More public health campaigns and further education on the appropriate use of antibiotics are needed to ensure the rational treatment of cough in children.

How Socioeconomic, Health Seeking Behaviours, and Educational Factors Are Affecting the Knowledge and Use of Antibiotics in Four Different Cities in Asia

Antibiotic resistance is occurring widely throughout the world and is affecting people of all ages. Socioeconomic factors, education, use of antibiotics, knowledge of antibiotics, and antibiotic resistance were assessed in four cities in Asia, namely Hong Kong, Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Bangkok. A survey using cluster sampling was used in 2021 to collect data on 642 subjects. Hongkongers used less antibiotics and were knowledgeable about using antibiotics to treat diseases, while Shanghainese were knowledgeable about antibiotic resistance. The multi-linear regression model reported that respondents who lived in Hong Kong (β = 0.744 (95% CI: 0.36-1.128), Shanghai (β = 1.65 (95% CI: 1.267-2.032), and Hangzhou (β = 1.393 (95% CI: 0.011-1.775) (reference group: Bangkok), who had higher scores on antibiotics knowledge (β = 0.161 (95% CI: 0.112-0.21)), higher educational attainment (β = 0.46 (95% CI: 0.296-0.625)), and who were more likely to consult a doctor on using antibiotics (β = 1.102 (95% CI: 0.606-1.598)), were more likely to give correct answers about antibiotic resistance, p < 0.001. Older respondents were less likely to answer the items correctly (β = -0.194 (95% CI: -0.333--0.055), p < 0.01. When educating the public on the proper use of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance, multiple strategies could be considered for people from all walks of life, as well as target different age groups.

'They eat it like sweets': A mixed methods study of antibiotic perceptions and their use among patients, prescribers and pharmacists in a district hospital in Kabul, Afghanistan

BACKGROUND

Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health threat. In Afghanistan, high levels of indiscriminate antibiotic use exist, and healthcare programmes are not informed by understanding of local attitudes towards rational antibiotic use. Médecins Sans Frontières is an international non-governmental organization providing healthcare services to the Ahmad Shah Baba (ASB) District Hospital in Kabul, Afghanistan, since 2009. This mixed-methods study aimed to explore the perceptions and attitudes toward antibiotics among patients, prescribers, and pharmacists in the ASB District hospital outpatient department.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

Knowledge of antibiotics including their purpose and function, how and why they are used, and drivers for choice of antibiotic was examined at patient, prescriber, and provider-level. The first phase of the study, an exploratory qualitative component using an interpretative approach, was used to inform the second phase, a structured survey. Thirty-six interviews were conducted with 39 participants (21 patients or caretakers and 18 hospital health workers). Three hundred and fifty-one (351) patients and caretakers completed the second phase, the structured survey. This study found that poor knowledge of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance is a driving factor for inappropriate use of antibiotics. Participant perceptions of living in a polluted environment drove the high demand and perceived 'need' for antibiotics: patients, doctors and pharmacists alike consider dirty and dusty living conditions as causes of 'disease' in the body, requiring antibiotics to 'clean' and 'strengthen' it.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings highlight the need for strategies to improve awareness and knowledge of the general public, improve practice of doctors and pharmacists, regulate antibiotic dispensing in private pharmacies, and implement antibiotic stewardship in hospitals.

Factors associated with self-medication in children and the decomposition of rural-urban disparities in China

Background

Self-medication in children is one of the greatest threats to children health in China.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to examine the potential factors associated with self-medication in children and explore rural-urban disparities.

Methods

A total of 2798 children enrolled in the study. Informed consent was obtained from each primary caregiver following a detail explanation about the purpose of the study. Multivariable logistic regression analysis and Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition analysis were used.

Results

The results showed that 38.2% primary caregivers of rural areas self-medicated their children, compared to 18.7% of those in urban areas. The urban primary caregivers with college or above education were more likely to self-medicate their children, while rural primary caregivers with college or above education were less likely to self-medicate their children. Children having unhealthy eating habits were more likely to have been self-medicated by their primary caregivers in urban and rural areas. Urban primary caregivers who spend more than 10 min from home to the nearest medical institution were more likely to self-medicate their children. In rural areas, children aged 3–6 years old, primary caregivers with monthly household income per capita of 1001–3000 Yuan, and children with chronic diseases are another set of enabling factors which impacted on self-medication. Unhealthy eating habits of children were the largest contributor to the rural-urban self-medication gap.

Conclusions

Children’s factors explained the largest portion of the rural-urban difference in self-medication among children. The evidence presented in this study suggests that public health policies addressing rural-urban differences in children’ s factors could serve as an effective method for reducing rural-urban disparities in self-medication among children.

Parental self-medication with antibiotics in a Tunisian pediatric center

INTRODUCTION

Self-medication of antibiotics among children is a very common problem in Tunisia. Its prevalence isn't well established. The aims of this study are to evaluate parents' knowledge concerning antibiotic use, and identify the factors associated with this problem.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study over a one year period (between August 2019 and July 2020). Data collection was performed using a questionnaire guided interview. We included parents of children consulting or hospitalized in the pediatric department of the university hospital Taher Sfar in Mahdia.

RESULTS

A total of 354 parents were included with an average age of 36.4±9.2 years. The average knowledge score was 2±1.3 points. In fact, 61.6% of the parents had poor knowledge about antibiotics. The frequency of non-prescription antibiotics use among children was 20.6%. Amoxicillin was the most used antibiotic (72.6%). Sore throat, important fever and flu-like symptoms were the main symptoms justifying non-prescription antibiotic use among our pediatric population in 60.3%, 34.2% and 23.3% of cases respectively. The main reason of self-medication was the fact that the same antibiotic was once prescribed to treat the same symptoms (58.9%). The used antibiotic came from an old prescription for the same child in 57.5% of the cases and was recommended by the pharmacist in 39.7% of the cases. After multivariate analysis, the factors associated with parental self-medication with antibiotics were: the advanced parent's age, the ability to name an antibiotic and knowledge's score>2.

CONCLUSION

Our study confirmed that parental knowledge about antibiotic use is low. In fact, the government should from one hand, organize antibiotic delivery and prohibit off the counter sells and in the other hand promote the education of the public through different procedures to stop this major health problem.

Understanding parental self-medication with antibiotics among parents of different nationalities: a cross-sectional study

Background

There is an increasing trend on the practices of parental self-medication with antibiotics (PSMA) around world, accelerating the antibiotic abuse. This study aims to examine the nationality differences in the practices of PSMA and knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) toward antibiotic use, and understand the practices of PSMA among parents of various nationalities in China.

Methods

A cross-sectional study based on a structured questionnaire survey was conducted in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China, from September 2018 to October 2018. A total of 299 respondents participated in. The practices of PSMA (a dichotomous variable) and KAP toward antibiotic use (a continuous variable) served as dependent variables. Participant’s nationality was regarded as the independent variable. Binary logistic regression and ordinary least square regression were employed to examine the association between parent’s nationality and the practices of PSMA, and KAP toward antibiotic use, respectively.

Results

121 (40.88%) Chinese, 100 (33.76%) other Asians and 75 (25.34%) Occidentals were included in final analysis, with a sample size of 296. Chinese were more likely to practice PSMA (OR = 7.070; 95% CI 1.315, 38.01), with worse knowledge (Coef. = − 0.549; 95% CI − 1.021, − 0.078), attitudes (Coef. = − 3.069; 95% CI − 4.182, − 1.956) and practices (Coef. = − 1.976; 95% CI − 3.162, − 0.790) toward antibiotic use, compared to their Occidental counterparts. The main reasons for the practices of PSMA were enough previous medication experience (80.49%) and same ailments with no need to see a doctor (39.02%), with common symptoms such as fever (60.98%) and cough (58.54%). Purchasing antibiotics at pharmacies (92.08%) and using leftover antibiotics (26.83%) were usual approaches.

Conclusions

The study highlights the gaps in the practices of PSMA and KAP toward antibiotic use among parents of different nationalities. The access to obtain antibiotics from pharmacies reflects the pharmacists’ unaware of laws on prescription of antibiotics, fierce competition in the pharmacy market, and the government’s lax supervision in China. It suggests the need to improve pharmacists’ training, enforce current legislations on pharmacy market regarding the sale of antibiotics, and provide practical and effective educational interventions for residents about antibiotic use.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s41256-021-00226-y.

Survey of Parental Use of Antimicrobial Drugs for Common Childhood Infections, China

In a large-scale survey of 9,526 parents in China, we investigated antimicrobial drug use for common childhood infections. Of children with self-limiting conditions, formal care was sought for 69.2%; of those, 53.4% received drug prescriptions, including 11.2% from parental demands. Where drugs were taken without prescriptions, 70% were from community pharmacies.

Large-scale survey of parental antibiotic use for paediatric upper respiratory tract infections in China: implications for stewardship programmes and national policy

BACKGROUND

Inappropriate use of antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in Chinese children is rampant. Parents' decision-making processes with respect to treatment choices and antibiotic use for paediatric URTIs were investigated to identify key constructs for effective interventions that target the public.

METHODS

Data were collected between June 2017 and April 2018 from a random cluster sample of 3188 parents of children aged 0-13 years across three Chinese provinces, representing different stages of economic development. Risk factors of parents' treatment choices and antibiotic use for paediatric URTIs were assessed using binary and multinomial logistic regressions, adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 1465 (46.0%) children of the 3188 parents who self-diagnosed their children with a URTI were given antibiotics, with or without prescription. Among these children, 40.5% were self-medicated with antibiotics by their parents and 56.1% obtained further antibiotic prescriptions at healthcare facilities. About 70% of children (n=2197) with URTI symptoms sought care; of these, 54.8% obtained antibiotic prescriptions and 7.7% asked for antibiotic prescriptions, with 79.4% successfully obtaining them. Those perceiving antibiotics as effective for treating the common cold and fever (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.82[95% confidence interval, 1.51-2.19] and 1.77[1.47-2.13], respectively), who had access to non-prescription antibiotics (aOR=5.08[4.03-6.39]), and with greater perceived severity of infection (aOR=2.01[1.58-2.56]), were more likely to use antibiotics.

CONCLUSIONS

Multifaceted, context-appropriate interventions are vital to untangle the perpetual problem of self-medication, over-prescription and ill-informed demands for antibiotics. The findings in this study emphasise the need to prioritise interventions that enhance clinical training, neutralise the pressure from patients for antibiotics, educate on appropriate home care, discourage antibiotic self-medication and improve antibiotic dispensing.

Parental self-medication with antibiotics for children promotes antibiotic over-prescribing in clinical settings in China

Background

Self-medication with antibiotics (SMA) is one of the most dangerous inappropriate antibiotic use behaviors. This study aims to investigate the impact of parental SMA for children before a consultation on their doctor’s subsequent antibiotic prescribing behavior, including intravenous (IV) antibiotic use in the clinical setting of China.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted between June 2017 and April 2018 in three provinces of China. A total of 9526 parents with children aged 0–13 years were investigated. Data from 1275 parents who had self-medicated their children and then visited a doctor in the past month were extracted and analyzed.

Results

One-third (410) of the studied children had parental SMA before the consultation and 83.9% of them were subsequently prescribed antibiotics by doctors. Children with parental SMA were more likely to be prescribed antibiotics (aOR = 7.79, 95% CI [5.74–10.58]), including IV antibiotics (aOR = 3.05, 95% CI [2.27–4.11]), and both oral and IV antibiotics (aOR = 3.42, 95% CI [2.42–4.84]), than children without parental SMA. Parents with SMA behaviors were more likely to request antibiotics (aOR = 4.05, 95% CI [2.59–6.31]) including IV antibiotics (aOR = 2.58, 95% CI [1.40–4.76]), and be fulfilled by doctors (aOR = 3.22, 95% CI [1.20–8.63]).

Conclusions

Tailored health education for parents is required in both community and clinical settings to discourage parental SMA for children. The doctors should not prescribe unnecessary antibiotics to reinforce parents’ SMA behaviors. We recommend expanding the current IV antibiotics ban in outpatient settings of China to cover outpatient pediatrics.

Cross-sectional Whole-genome Sequencing and Epidemiological Study of Multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis in China

Background

The increase in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) severely hampers tuberculosis prevention and control in China, a country with the second highest MDR-TB burden globally. The first nationwide drug-resistant tuberculosis surveillance program provides an opportunity to comprehensively investigate the epidemiological/drug-resistance characteristics, potential drug-resistance mutations, and effective population changes of Chinese MDR-TB.

Methods

We sequenced 357 MDR strains from 4600 representative tuberculosis-positive sputum samples collected during the survey (70 counties in 31 provinces). Drug-susceptibility testing was performed using 18 anti-tuberculosis drugs, representing the most comprehensive drug-resistance profile to date. We used 3 statistical and 1 machine-learning methods to identify drug-resistance genes/single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We used Bayesian skyline analysis to investigate changes in effective population size.

Results

Epidemiological/drug-resistance characteristics showed different MDR profiles, co-resistance patterns, preferred drug combination/use, and recommended regimens among 7 Chinese administrative regions. These factors not only reflected the serious multidrug co-resistance and drug misuse but they were also potentially significant in facilitating the development of appropriate regimens for MDR-TB treatment in China. Further investigation identified 86 drug-resistance genes/intergenic regions/SNPs (58 new), providing potential targets for MDR-TB diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the effective population of Chinese MDR-TB displayed a strong expansion during 1993–2000, reflecting socioeconomic transition within the country. The phenomenon of expansion was restrained after 2000, likely attributable to the advances in diagnosis/treatment technologies and government support.

Conclusions

Our findings provide an important reference and improved understanding of MDR-TB in China, which are potentially significant in achieving the goal of precision medicine with respect to MDR-TB prevention and treatment.

Prevalence and dental professional awareness of antibiotic self-medication among older adults: Implications for dental education

OBJECTIVE

Antibiotic stewardship has been recognized as an essential component of dental education. A notable threat to stewardship is the growing trend toward self-medication with nonprescribed antibiotics (SMNPA), particularly among older adults who may be at increased risk for adverse outcomes. This study aimed to assess the need to incorporate SMNPA into dental education by researching (1) professional awareness and (2) self-medication behaviors among older adults.

METHODS

A SMNPA awareness survey was administered to dentists in Arizona with 148 respondents including general dentists, dental school faculty, and public health clinicians. A second survey was distributed to 410 households in an independent and assisted living facility.

RESULTS

The dentists were aware of sources of SMNPA such as friends/family, leftover prescriptions, as well as sources outside of the United States; however, most (>80%) were not aware that ornamental fish antibiotics could be obtained online or in pet stores. The survey response rate for the older adults was 46.3%, of which 68.3% reported antibiotic use within the past 2 years (several for dental premedication) and 6.4% (n = 12) admitted to SMNPA for treating cold symptoms or pain. The main reason given for self-treatment was the belief that antibiotics had resolved similar symptoms in the past. One-third of the older adult respondents were unaware that antibiotics only treat bacterial infections.

CONCLUSION

Approximately 1 in 16 older adults surveyed reported SMNPA. Dental professionals reported some knowledge of SMNPA but were unaware of all sources. This study highlights the need for SMNPA education, awareness, and implementation within dental curricula.

Demographic, socio-economic and other associated risk factors for self-medication behaviour among university students of Sri Lanka: a cross sectional study

Background

Self-prescribing practices are considered as a significant issue in the health sector due to mal-practices. This has become a more worsen issue in developing countries with easy access to medication. Current study was undertaken to estimate the prevalence of self-medication and to evaluate the driving factors behind this behavior, among university students of Sri Lanka.

Method

A total of 700 randomly selected undergraduates of three state universities in Sri Lanka, were recruited as the study population for the cross-sectional study. Information on socio-demographic, Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices relevant to Self-Medication (SM) were gathered using an interviewer administered questionnaire. Binary logistic regression was used to calculate the Odds Ratios (OR) and the 95% confidence intervals of the OR for socio-demographic risk factors on SM.

Results

Around 78% of the studied population denoted a SM behaviour. Only, 37.7% of respondents were familiar with the classification of “Over the Counter” (OTC) drugs, while majority were well aware of the risks of SM (> 50%). Fever (61.3%) and cough (56.7%) were the major health issues for SM, while antipyretics and drugs for cough and runny nose (73.6%) were the mostly used medication. Previous experience (76%) and trivial nature of health issues (73%) were recognized as the major reasons for SM. Majority of respondents declared that community pharmacies (86.9%) and left over medication from previous prescriptions (51%) were the sources for SM. Based on the binary logistic regression, age, residence locality, field of study and academic year were recognized as significant risk factors (P < 0.05) for SM within the studied undergraduate population.

Conclusion

Based on the high prevalence rate of SM, the health authorities of Sri Lanka should pay more attention towards the wellbeing and responsible medication usage of undergraduates. Designing of effective tools and regulations to monitor the selling of medication and improving the health education are recommended to ensure responsible SM within the country.

Dispensing Antibiotics without a Prescription for Acute Cough Associated with Common Cold at Community Pharmacies in Shenyang, Northeastern China: A Cross-Sectional Study

: The inappropriate use of antibiotics is a major health issue in China. We aimed to assess nonprescription antibiotic dispensing and assess pharmacy service practice at community pharmacies in Shenyang, northeastern China, and to compare these practices between pediatric and adult cases. A cross-sectional study was performed from March to May 2018 using the standardized client method. Two different simulated scenarios were presented at pharmacies, namely, pediatric and adult acute cough associated with a common cold. Of 150 pharmacy visits, 147 visits were completed (pediatric case: 73, adult case: 74). A total of 130 (88.4%) community pharmacies dispensed antibiotics without a prescription, with a significant difference between pediatric and adult cases (pediatric case, 79.5% versus adult case, 97.3%, p = 0.005). Symptoms were asked in most visits (pediatric case: 82.2%, adult case 82.4%). Patients' previous treatment and history of allergies were both inquired more frequently in the pediatric cases than in the adult cases. Medication advice was provided more often in the adult cases than in pediatric cases. Antibiotics were easily obtained without a prescription in Shenyang, especially for adult patients. Adequate inquiries and counseling had not occurred in most pharmacies.

Influence of leftover antibiotics on self-medication with antibiotics for children: a cross-sectional study from three Chinese provinces

OBJECTIVES

To investigate leftover antibiotics and their influence on self-medication with antibiotics (SMA) for Chinese children, and further explore the different influences of leftovers from two main sources: previous prescriptions and pharmaceutical purchases.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional questionnaire study.

SETTING

The participants were approached through kindergartens and primary schools as well as in vaccination clinics.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 9526 parents from three Chinese provinces whose children were aged 0-13 years completed the survey.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The prevalence of keeping antibiotics at home for children and the proportion of leftover antibiotics from two main sources were measured by a self-administrated questionnaire. Logistic regression models were established to examine the association between keeping antibiotics at home and SMA for children, specifically the risks of leftovers from two main sources.

RESULTS

Overall, 4580 (48.1%) reported keeping antibiotics at home for children. Among those who had leftovers, 2891 (63.1%) reported that their leftovers came from previous prescriptions and 1619 (35.3%) reported that their leftovers came from pharmaceutical purchases. Mothers, older age of child, higher household income, higher education level and medical background were significantly associated with keeping antibiotics at home. Keeping antibiotics at home was significantly associated with SMA for children (adjusted OR=4.91, 95% CI 3.84 to 6.28). Particularly, compared with parents who did not keep antibiotics at home, parents who kept leftover antibiotics from previous prescriptions and those whose leftovers came from pharmaceutical purchases were 3.80 (95% CI 2.89 to 5.00) and 6.45 (95% CI 4.89 to 8.51) times more likely to engage in SMA for children, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Keeping antibiotics at home for children was pervasive in China. Most leftovers came from previous prescriptions, while those from pharmacies had a higher risk of SMA for children.

Pathways to optimising antibiotic use in rural China: identifying key determinants in community and clinical settings, a mixed methods study protocol

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to investigate patterns of antibiotic treatment-seeking, describe current levels of and drivers for antibiotic use for common infections (respiratory tract and urinary tract infections) and test the feasibility of determining the prevalence and epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in rural areas of Anhui province, in order to identify potential interventions to promote antibiotic stewardship and reduce the burden of AMR in China.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will conduct direct observations, structured and semistructured interviews in retail pharmacies, village clinics and township health centres to investigate treatment-seeking and antibiotic use. Clinical isolates from 1550 sputum, throat swab and urine samples taken from consenting patients at village and township health centres will be analysed to identify bacterial pathogens and ascertain antibiotic susceptibilities. Healthcare records will be surveyed for a subsample of those recruited to the study to assess their completeness and accuracy.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The full research protocol has been reviewed and approved by the Biomedical Ethics Committee of Anhui Medical University (reference number: 20170271). Participation of patients and doctors is voluntary and written informed consent is sought from all participants. Findings from the study will be disseminated through academic routes including peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations, via tailored research summaries for health professionals, health service managers and policymakers and through an end of project impact workshop with local and regional stakeholders to identify key messages and priorities for action.

Demographic determinants of self-medication in the population covered by health centers in Tabriz

Background: Self-medication is the choice and use of medications by people to treat a self-diagnosed illness or symptom. The aim of this study was to search the relationship between a number of socio-demographic conditions and self-medication in the population covered by health complexes in Tabriz, Iran. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study and was carried out on the population covered by health complexes in Tabriz. Participants were recruited by a multi-stage sampling method. A total of 1000 participants were included in the study. Data collection was done using a researcher-created questionnaire. Data were analyzed using chi-square test and logistic regression. Results: The incidence of self-medication was 70.9% for participants who reported illness in the last month. The chance of self-medication was higher in young (P=0.007) and middle-aged (P=0.012) groups, and housewives (P=0.048); and was lower among participants who were not literate (P=0.047). There was no significant relationship between gender and self medication (P=0.553). The high cost of visits was mentioned as a reason for self-medication. The most frequently mentioned drugs used in self-medication were analgesics, cold medicines, and antibiotics, respectively. More frequent reasons for self-medication were the previous experience of the disease, the assumption that the ailment was not important, and the high cost of visits, respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of self-medication in this study was high. Considering the results, education in the community, financial support, and monitoring the delivery of drugs can play an important role in improving the pattern of drug use.

Knowledge, attitude, and practice of self-medication with antibiotics among community residents in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Background: Self-medication with antibiotics, which may cause significant antibiotic resistance, is predominant in developing countries. The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of self-medication with antibiotics among community residents in Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted from June to August 2017. Knowledge-Attitude-Practice questionnaire was developed and distributed to eligible household respondents in Addis Ababa and its surrounding area. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with self-medication with antibiotics. Results: Among the 605 invited participants, 595 respondents were participated in this study (response rate = 98.3%) and 67.3% of the respondents had reported self-medication with antibiotics in the past 6 months. The median score of knowledge about antibiotics was 3 (Inter quarter range: 2-4) of a maximum possible score of 6 and the median score of attitude was 19 (Inter quarter range: 16-22) from a maximum of 29. Self-medication with antibiotics was significantly associated with age, educational status, and average monthly income of the communities. Conclusions: Respondents have inadequate knowledge and inappropriate practice toward rational use of antibiotics. Policies such as restricting the purchase of antibiotics without a medical prescription and educating appropriate use of antibiotics are urgently needed.

Cross-sectional study of the use of antimicrobials following common infections by rural residents in Anhui, China

OBJECTIVE

To describe help seeking behaviour from a medical doctor and antimicrobial use for common infections among rural residents of Anhui province, China.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional retrospective household survey.

SETTING

12 administrative villages from rural Anhui, China.

PARTICIPANTS

2760 rural residents selected through cluster-randomised sampling using an interviewer administered questionnaire.

METHOD

Logistic regression models were used to estimate associations between exposures (health insurance and antimicrobial-related knowledge), adjusted for confounders (sex, age and education), and help-seeking behaviour from a medical doctor and antimicrobial use following common infections, including acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs), gastrointestinal tract infections (GTIs) and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

RESULTS

In total 2611 (94.6%) rural residents completed the questionnaire. Help seeking from a medical doctor was highest for ARTIs (59.4%) followed by GTIs (42.1%), and UTIs (27.8%). Around two-thirds (82.3% for ARTIs, 87.0% for GTIs and 66.0% for UTIs) of respondents sought help within 3 days following symptom onset and over three quarters (88% for ARTIs, 98% for GTIs and 77% for UTIs) reported complete recovery within 7 days. Of the help-seeking respondents, 94.5% with ARTI symptoms recalled being prescribed either oral or intravenous antimicrobials (GTIs 81.7% and UTIs 70.4%). Use of antimicrobials bought from medicine shops without prescriptions ranged from 8.8% for GTIs to 17.2% for ARTIs; while use of antimicrobials leftover from previous illnesses or given by a relative ranged from 7.6% for UTIs to 13.4% for ARTIs. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that respondents with a higher antimicrobial-related knowledge score and lack of insurance were associated with lower levels of help-seeking for ARTIs; while respondents with a higher antimicrobial-related knowledge score were less likely to be prescribed either oral or intravenous antimicrobials.

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive antimicrobial use in the studied primary care settings is still prevalent.

A School-Based Educational Intervention for School-Aged Children and Caregivers about Rational Use of Antibiotics in Urban Areas of Shaanxi Province: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Research

(1) Background: Antibiotic resistance is an imperative public health issue globally. Major factors that are resulting in this trend are the irrational and excessive use of antibiotics. Children account for a greater population of antibiotics use, therefore, an educational intervention on the rational use of antibiotics for children and caregivers will be beneficial. (2) Methods: A randomized controlled and parallel group study of fifth grade children and their caregivers will be evaluated in four primary schools in Baoji and Weinan of the Shaanxi Province. Two primary schools will be randomly selected for the educational intervention and two schools will serve as a control group. In the intervention arm, educational interventions will be conducted among caregivers and their children. The intervention measures include interactive training sessions, booklets, and printed or electronic educational materials that will be given to the caregivers or the school-aged children. In the control arm, no interventions will be implemented. Baseline data collected from June, 2018 and the intervention will last for three months. Knowledge-Attitude-Practice (KAP) questionnaires will be used to evaluate the caregivers’ knowledge, their attitude, and their practice. Knowledge-Retention questionnaires will be used to assess the children’s knowledge about microbes, antibiotics, and hygiene. (3) Discussion: This study is a unique comprehensive intervention targeting both children and their caregivers. We hypothesize a decrease in the irrational use of antibiotics among the studied population. Hence, this result would provide evidence for policy makers and educational departments for the implementation of similar interventions on the rational use of antibiotics.

Prevalence of antibiotic resistance in commensal Escherichia coli among the children in rural hill communities of Northeast India

Commensal bacteria are the representative of the reservoir of antibiotic resistance genes present in a community. The usage of antibiotics along with the demographic factors is generally associated with an increase in antibiotics resistance in pathogens. Northeast (NE) India is untapped with regard to antibiotic resistance prevalence and spread. In the current study, the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant commensal Escherichia coli in pre-school and school-going children (n = 550, 1–14 years old) from the rural areas of the state of Sikkim—an NE Indian state, with respect to associated demographic factors was investigated. A total of 550 fecal E. coli isolates were collected during July 2015 to June 2017. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data to ascertain the potential factors associated with the carriage of antibiotic resistance E. coli among the children. Statistical analysis along with a logistic regression identified potential external factors affecting the observed antibiotic resistance pattern. The data indicated a high prevalence of resistance to common antibiotics like ampicillin (92%), ceftazidime (90%), cefoxitin (88%), streptomycin (40%) and tetracycline (36%), but no resistance to chloramphenicol. The resistance to the combination of penicillin and quinolone group of antibiotics was observed in fifty-two percent of the isolates. A positive correlation between the harboring of antibiotics resistant E. coli with different demographic factors was observed such as, with children living in nuclear family (vs joint family 63.15%, OR 0.18, 95% CI:0.11–0.28, p < 0.01), below higher secondary maternal education (vs college graduates 59.27% OR 0.75, 95% CI:0.55–1.02, p < 0.02). A close association between different demographic factors and the high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant commensal E. coli in the current study suggests a concern over rising misuse of antibiotics that warrants a future threat of emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogen isolates.

Keeping Antibiotics at Home Promotes Self-Medication with Antibiotics among Chinese University Students

Background: Inappropriate use of antibiotics has caused antimicrobial resistance, presenting a major health challenge to the world population. Self-medication with antibiotics (SMA) is currently at an alarming level in China. Objectives: To determine the sources of antibiotics leftover at home, the risk factors of keeping antibiotics at home, and the associations between keeping antibiotics at home and SMA among Chinese university students. Methods: Six provinces were purposely selected from six regions of China, and one multi-disciplinary university was selected from each chosen province. A total of 11,192 university students were selected using cluster random sampling from the selected universities. Logistic regression was conducted to examine the relationship between keeping antibiotics at home and SMA. Results: Out of the 11,192 students surveyed, 7057 (63.1%) reported keeping antibiotics at home at the time they were surveyed. Of those who kept antibiotics in their home, 1965 (27.8%) reported that these antibiotics were left over from a previous prescription by a doctor and 4893 (69.3%), purchased antibiotics over the counter. Additionally, 29.6% (507/1711) of students self-medicated with antibiotics when ill during the month before the survey. Students keeping antibiotics at home were five times (95% CI 3.53, 7.05) more likely to engage in SMA when ill and 2.6 times (95% CI 2.34, 2.89) more likely to self-medicating with antibiotics for prophylaxis than the other students. Female students, those with a family background of higher education, and those who had a parent working in the medical field had a significantly higher chance of keeping antibiotics at home. Conclusions: The high prevalence of keeping antibiotics at home and SMA among young adults is a serious concern. Professional regulations and population-tailored health education are needed.

Knowledge and attitudes towards the use of antibiotics in the paediatric age group: a multicenter survey in Italy

Background

: The misuse of antibiotics is one of the leading causes of antibiotic resistance. Paediatric patients are highly involved in this issue, as they are those who receive the largest amount of prescriptions of these drugs. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the general knowledge regarding the use of antibiotics, as well as the attitudes related to the administration of these drugs to children, amongst parents of children in the paediatric age-group. : In 2014, a multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted amongst parents of children aged 0-14. A questionnaire made up of 33 items was administered in waiting rooms of outpatient departments. Multivariable logistic regression models were performed, in order to assess the potential predictors of a better knowledge about antibiotics. : A total of 1247 parents took part to the survey. Around 33% of the samples declared that antibiotics are useful for viral infections, 20.6% that antibiotics are useful for every kind of pain and inflammation, while 14% of the parents stated that they stop giving antibiotics to their children when they start feeling better. Multivariable models showed that males, unemployed and those with lower levels of education are less prone to answer correctly to the questions about antibiotics. : The present study demonstrates that parents have a lack of knowledge regarding the use of antibiotics, which results in bad habits and inappropriate attitudes when it comes to giving antibiotics to their children. Attention should be particularly focused on disadvantaged parents.

Non-prescription use of antibiotics among children in urban China: a cross-sectional survey of knowledge, attitudes, and practices

BACKGROUND

Non-prescription use of antibiotics in children is an important public health problem. We aimed to investigate primary caregivers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices of antibiotics use among children in urban China.

METHODS

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotics use in children were assessed through a cross-sectional questionnaire survey of 4200 caregivers of children under-7 years from three cities in China. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Caregivers' knowledge gaps and undesirables attitudes regarding appropriate use of antibiotics were identified. 48.2% of respondents reported non-prescription use of antibiotics for children in the past 6 months. The most common sources of antibiotics used without a prescription are community pharmacies and leftovers. Storing antibiotics at home and caregivers' supportive attitude were positively and significantly associated with non-prescription use of antibiotics in children, while significant inverse associations were found for caregiver's knowledge of prescription-only regulation on antibiotics sales at community pharmacies.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a high proportion of primary caregivers self-medicate antibiotics for children in urban China, despite their insufficient knowledge about antibiotic use. Public health initiatives are needed such as public education campaigns and stricter government regulation of antibiotic use and availability in community pharmacies.

Inappropriate use of antibiotics among communities of Gondar town, Ethiopia: a threat to the development of antimicrobial resistance

Background

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance, the main cause of morbidity and mortality from otherwise treatable infections, is largely attributed to the inappropriate use of antimicrobials. However, data on the extent of inappropriate use of antibiotics in the community is scarce in Ethiopia. The aim of present study is to document the extent of inappropriate use of antibiotics and its associated factors among the communities of Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A community based cross-sectional survey was conducted on a total of 650 participants in Gondar town, northwest Ethiopia from December 1, 2016 to January 30, 2017. Descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were also performed to express different variables and to examine factors associated with inappropriate use of antibiotics.

Results

According to the finding of our study, 315 (48.5%) of the participants took antibiotics in the past 1 year, of which 115 (35.9%) of them used inappropriately. Amoxicillin (72%) was the most commonly utilized antibiotics and respiratory tract infection (40.9%) was the most common disease condition to which antibiotics had been sought. About 36.8% of the respondents got antibiotics from community drug retail outlets without a prescription and 67.9% of respondents had discontinued the use of antibiotics once their symptoms subside. Low educational status (AOR = 5.01, 95% CI = 2.62–9.34), being employed (AOR = 2.12, 95% CI = 1.81–7.29) and unsatisfied with health care services provided (AOR = 5.41, 95% CI = 2.71-14.21) were found to be strong predictors of inappropriate use of antibiotics use among the community.

Conclusion

Inappropriate use of antibiotics was found to be considerably high in the communities of Gondar, northwest Ethiopia. Taking into consideration the heightened importance of comprehensive knowledge in the rational use of antibiotics, different stakeholders working in the public health sectors should provide a comprehensive and customized education to the public so as to improve their knowledge about antibiotics. It is also essential to adopt a strong and explicit line of actions towards the accessibility of antibiotics without a valid prescription in community medicine retail outlets.

Antimicrobial susceptibility of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates from Hefei (2014-2015): genetic characteristics of antimicrobial resistance

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and genetic determinants of resistance of N. gonorrhoeae isolates from Hefei, China, were characterized adding a breadth of information to the molecular epidemiology of gonococcal resistance in China.

Methods

126 N. gonorrhoeae isolates from a hospital clinic in Hefei, were collected between January, 2014, and November, 2015. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of N. gonorrhoeae isolates for seven antimicrobials were determined by the agar dilution method. Isolates were tested for mutations in penA and mtrR genes and 23S rRNA, and also genotyped using N. gonorrhoeae multi-antigen sequence typing (NG-MAST).

Results

All N. gonorrhoeae isolates were resistant to ciprofloxacin; 81.7% (103/126) to tetracycline and 73.8% (93/126) to penicillin. 39.7% (50/126) of isolates were penicillinase producing N. gonorrhoeae (PPNG), 31.7% (40/126) were tetracycline resistant N. gonorrhoeae (TRNG) and 28.6% (36/126) were resistant to azithromycin. While not fully resistant to extended spectrum cephalosporins (ESCs), a total of 14 isolates (11.1%) displayed decreased susceptibility to ceftriaxone (MIC ≥ 0.125 mg/L, n = 10), cefixime (MIC ≥ 0. 25 mg/L, n = 1) or to both ESCs (n = 3). penA mosaic alleles XXXV were found in all isolates that harbored decreased susceptibility to cefixime, except for one. Four mutations were found in mtrR genes and mutations A2143G and C2599T were identified in 23S rRNA. No isolates were resistant to spectinomycin. Gonococcal isolates were distributed into diverse NG-MAST sequence types (STs); 86 separate STs were identified.

Conclusions

N. gonorrhoeae isolates from Hefei during 2014–2015, displayed high levels of resistance to antimicrobials that had been recommended previously for treatment of gonorrhea, e.g., penicillin, tetracycline and ciprofloxacin. The prevalence of resistance to azithromycin was also high (28.6%). No isolates were found to be fully resistant to spectinomycin, ceftriaxone or cefixime; however, 11.1% isolates, overall, had decreased susceptibility to ESCs.

Antimicrobial storage and antibiotic knowledge in the community: a cross-sectional pilot study in north-western Angola

BACKGROUND

Antimicrobials are drugs that were once lifesavers and mainly curative. Nowadays their value is increasingly under pressure because of the rapid and worldwide emergence of antimicrobial resistance, which, in low-resource settings, frequently occurs in microorganisms that are likely to be transmitted in the community.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional pilot study including 102 households within the 10th Health and Demographic Surveillance System round in Dande, Bengo Province, Angola.

RESULTS

Of the total 102 households piloted, 79 (77.45%) were urban. Fifty-seven respondents were female (56.44%), and the mean age of the respondents was 39.70±15.35years. Overall, storage of antimicrobials was found in 55/102 households (53.92%). More than 66% of the antimicrobials stored were prescribed by a health professional and the majority of antimicrobials were bought at pharmacies or at a street market. Penicillin and its derivatives, antimalarial drugs, and metronidazole were the antimicrobials most frequently stored. Households with female respondents reported storing any drugs at home more frequently (82.50%; p=0.002) and also storing antimicrobials more frequently (64.91%; p=0.016) as compared to households with male respondents. Reported use of antimicrobials was significantly higher in urban households (60.76%, 48/79) as compared to rural households (30.43%, 7/23) (p=0.010). Overall, 74 of 101 respondents (73.26%) reported having already heard about antibiotics. The common reasons given for their use were cough and other respiratory symptoms, wounds, flu and body muscle pain, fever, bladder complaints, and diarrhoea and/or presumed typhoid fever. Nearly 40% (28/74) of the respondents thought that antibiotics should be stopped as soon as the person does not feel sick anymore.

CONCLUSIONS

Community interventions for appropriate use of antibiotics should be designed with a special focus on women. This should be done through public awareness campaigns and improving access to reliable medical services. Drug prescribers are key not only to appropriate antimicrobial prescription, but also to adequate dispensing, and are strong advocates for the possible misconceptions on antimicrobial usage by lay people.

Public knowledge and behaviours concerning antibiotic use and resistance in France: a cross-sectional survey

PURPOSE

To evaluate knowledge and behaviours concerning antibiotics and bacterial resistance in the French population, and to identify the socio-demographic factors associated with a high level of such knowledge and appropriate behaviours.

METHODS

A survey of the general population was conducted in 2015 in northeast France. The 44-item standardized questionnaire used comprised three parts, focusing on the assessment of knowledge, behaviours, and the collection of main socio-demographic characteristics of respondents (gender, age, having children, education level, and profession). The association of these characteristics with the level of knowledge about antibiotics, and with related behaviours, as well as the association between knowledge and behaviours was identified in a bivariate analysis (Chi-2 tests) and a multivariate analysis when necessary (logistic regression).

RESULTS

The 200 respondents had quite a good level of knowledge about antibiotics for several points: the lack of effectiveness of antibiotics for colds (75.5%), the risk of inefficacy of antibiotics when misused (93%), and the effects of overconsumption on bacterial resistance (92%). Conversely, the effects of different doses and treatment durations on resistance were less well known. Inappropriate behaviours were frequent, especially non-adherence to dosing schedules and to treatment duration (35.5%), and self-medication practices (18%). Female gender, older age, and having children were independently associated with a good level of knowledge. A low level of education and older age were associated with appropriate behaviours.

CONCLUSIONS

No association was found between knowledge and behaviours, highlighting the relevance of national public information campaigns to limit the misuse of antibiotics.

Effectiveness of Antibiotic Use Management in Tianjin (2011-2013): A Quasi-Experimental Study

BACKGROUND In this study we investigated changes in the status of antibiotic use in Tianjin since the implementation of the Antibiotic Stewardship Program (ASP) (2011-2013), as well as existing problems, strategies, and outcomes to promote rational clinical antibiotic use. MATERIAL AND METHODS A quasi-experimental study was performed to investigate situations of antibiotic use in secondary and tertiary general hospitals in Tianjin from April 2011 to 2013. Five major indicators were analyzed: percentage of antibiotic use in inpatient cases (%), antibacterial use density (AUD), proportion of prophylactic antibiotic application for type I surgical incision, compliance rate of medication administration 0.5-2.0 h before such procedures, and antibiotic prophylaxis for ≤24 h in patients receiving these surgeries. RESULTS There was a decrease in the percentage of antibiotic use across general hospitals (60.38% to 46.88%), in AUD (51.60% to 35.37%), and in the proportion of prophylactic antibiotic applications for type I incisions (86.67% to 25.08%). For patients undergoing these procedures, there was an increased compliance rate of medication administration of 0.5-2.0 h prior to surgery (86.38% to 100%), and of antibiotic prophylactic use for ≤24 h (40.30% to 96.37%). CONCLUSIONS Implementation of the ASP campaign has reduced irrational antibiotic use, promoted rational antibiotic use, and delayed antibiotic resistance.

Antibiotic misuse among children with diarrhea in China: results from a national survey

Background

Antibiotic resistance is one of the world’s biggest public health issues, and the situation in China is particularly grave. The objective of this study is to investigate the antibiotics usage pattern among Chinese children and provide further insight in developing strategies for promoting public health education.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study, in the study, participants are from 53,665 guardians of children aged 0–6 years, who were recruited with multistage stratified random cluster sampling in 2013/2014 from 46 community health centers in 14 provinces across China Mainland. Children’s guardians completed surveys on their previous experience on using antibiotics in treating diarrhea of their children without a prescription from any pediatrician. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidential intervals (CIs) for the association between antibiotic use and its predictors were estimated using multilevel logistic regression models, with antibiotic rational use group as a reference group.

Results

The prevalence of antibiotic misuse among children with diarrhea in the eastern, middle and western areas of China and associations between antibiotic misuse and its predictors were studied. The average rate of antibiotic misuse is 35.12%. Multilevel logistic regression revealed that living in urban areas (OR = 0.79 (0.76, 0.83)), female children (OR = 0.92 (0.88, 0.96)), guardians having higher education (OR = 0.60 (0.55, 0.66)), being raised by parents (OR = 0.90 (0.85, 0.94)), guardians having basic health knowledge (OR = 0.82 (0.79, 0.86)) are protective factors and children’s age (1–3 years OR = 1.62 (1.54, 1.71)); 4–6 years OR = 1.90 (1.77, 2.03)) is a risk factor of antibiotic misuse among children aged 0–6 years with diarrhea in China.

Conclusions

Our findings confirmed that there has been a high rate of antibiotic misuse without a prescription in children with diarrhea in China, which requires considerable attention. Suitable regulations and interventions are needed to solve this problem.

A lotus root inspired implant system with fever responsive characteristics and 3D printing defined nano-antibiotic release patterns

Lotus root imitated scaffolds were fabricated with several critical releasing parameters could be prearranged. Furthermore, when postoperative infection caused hyperthermia occurred, the inner drugs, could be spontaneously released.