Knowledge, attitudes, and practice of fish farmers towards eco-pharmacovigilance for aquaculture discharge of pharmaceutical contaminants from a One-Health perspective: a cross-sectional study in Wuhan area of China

Veterinary pharmaceuticals widely used in aquaculture would finally enter into the environment, then adversely affect the "One-Health" trilogy (environmental, human, animal health). As a source-control measure for pharmaceutical pollution, the eco-pharmacovigilance (EPV) has been put in place to control discharge of medicinal products for human use. To further implement EPV for veterinary pharmaceuticals, it is necessary to examine the related anthropogenic activities among key stakeholders in veterinary pharmacovigilance, such as farmers. This study conducted a One-Health assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding EPV for aquaculture discharge of pharmaceuticals among 273 fish farmers in Wuhan, China. Mean knowledge score was 2.21 ± 1.29 out of 10. Most respondents expressed positive attitudes, but also lack of appropriate practices regarding aquaculture discharge of pharmaceutical contaminants and its EPV control. Concern about economy and input cost was identified as the top perceived barrier to eco-friendly use and disposal of veterinary pharmaceuticals, chosen by 26.7% respondents. Moreover, 62.3% farmers were aware of their responsibilities for reducing aquaculture discharge of veterinary pharmaceuticals, however, 45.1% tend to adopt a wait-and-see approach. Data emphasized an urgent need to provide related education and training. EPV measures for aquaculture discharge of pharmaceuticals should be implemented in an economical manner.