The knowledge and interest of Iraqi pharmacists in pharmaceutical research: A cross-sectional study

Background: High interest and good knowledge in pharmaceutical research are crucial for pharmacists to improve the quality of care to their patients. Most pharmacists in developing countries have poor knowledge in the basics of conducting scientific research and are less likely to be interested in participating in research activities. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess Iraqi pharmacists' knowledge and interest in pharmaceutical research. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a newly developed and validated questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed to Iraqi pharmacists through social media in March 2023. Only pharmacists who work in community pharmacies were eligible to participate in the study. Results: The questionnaire was filled by 230 pharmacists; however, only 149 responses were complete and submitted by community pharmacists and thus included in this study. Most of the participating community pharmacists have an intermediate interest in research activities. Meantime, this research interest was positively and significantly influenced by the history of publishing research (P<0.05). Less than 1/3 of the participating pharmacists were confident in their knowledge about pharmaceutical research. Conclusion: The participating Iraqi community pharmacists have a moderate interest but poor knowledge in pharmaceutical research.