COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVES ON ANTIBIOTIC USE IN BANGLADESH: FINDINGS FROM A QUALITATIVE STUDY
1
Public Helath, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (bsmmu), Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Antibiotic misuse is a major global health concern, especially in countries like Bangladesh. Understanding community knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use is essential for designing effective interventions. This study aimed to explore these aspects among rural residents in Bangladesh.
METHODS:
A qualitative study was conducted using in-depth interviews (IDIs) with 27 participants from diverse ages, genders, socioeconomic statuses, and educational backgrounds residing in rural areas. One Upazila from Mymensingh District was randomly selected, and participants were purposively recruited to capture variation in demographic and social factors. Data collection continued until thematic saturation was reached. Interviews were audio-recorded with consent or documented in writing if participants declined recording. Data were analyzed thematically to identify participants’ knowledge, beliefs, and contextual factors influencing antibiotic use.
RESULTS:
Participants had limited understanding of antibiotics, often using them as quick remedies for common illnesses. Self-medication and over-the-counter purchases without prescriptions were common. Four main themes emerged: (a) availability of antibiotics without prescription, (b) limited knowledge of proper use and consequences, (c) misleading advice from non-medical personnel, and (d) economic barriers. Pharmacy salespersons frequently recommended antibiotics without medical guidance. Drivers of these practices included perceived treatment costs, convenience, lack of trust in healthcare providers, and influence of informal drug sellers. Cultural beliefs and social networks also shaped antibiotic use. While some participants were aware of antibiotic resistance, they lacked comprehension of its long-term health consequences.
CONCLUSIONS:
The study revealed widespread misuse of antibiotics due to easy access, limited knowledge, and economic constraints. Reducing antibiotic resistance requires targeted community health education, stricter enforcement of prescription regulations, and improved access to affordable healthcare services.
Antibiotic misuse is a major global health concern, especially in countries like Bangladesh. Understanding community knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use is essential for designing effective interventions. This study aimed to explore these aspects among rural residents in Bangladesh.
METHODS:
A qualitative study was conducted using in-depth interviews (IDIs) with 27 participants from diverse ages, genders, socioeconomic statuses, and educational backgrounds residing in rural areas. One Upazila from Mymensingh District was randomly selected, and participants were purposively recruited to capture variation in demographic and social factors. Data collection continued until thematic saturation was reached. Interviews were audio-recorded with consent or documented in writing if participants declined recording. Data were analyzed thematically to identify participants’ knowledge, beliefs, and contextual factors influencing antibiotic use.
RESULTS:
Participants had limited understanding of antibiotics, often using them as quick remedies for common illnesses. Self-medication and over-the-counter purchases without prescriptions were common. Four main themes emerged: (a) availability of antibiotics without prescription, (b) limited knowledge of proper use and consequences, (c) misleading advice from non-medical personnel, and (d) economic barriers. Pharmacy salespersons frequently recommended antibiotics without medical guidance. Drivers of these practices included perceived treatment costs, convenience, lack of trust in healthcare providers, and influence of informal drug sellers. Cultural beliefs and social networks also shaped antibiotic use. While some participants were aware of antibiotic resistance, they lacked comprehension of its long-term health consequences.
CONCLUSIONS:
The study revealed widespread misuse of antibiotics due to easy access, limited knowledge, and economic constraints. Reducing antibiotic resistance requires targeted community health education, stricter enforcement of prescription regulations, and improved access to affordable healthcare services.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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