Examination of Social Determinants of Health and Antibiotic Use Among Individuals in Emerging Adulthood

The study examines the sociodemographic characteristics, social determinants of health, and antibiotic usage patterns of individuals in emerging adulthood, focusing on those aged 18-25 in Ankara. Using the snowball sampling method, data are collected from 391 participants and analyzed with SPSS. Descriptive statistics and nonparametric tests are applied to non-normally distributed data. The reliability of the scales is assessed with Cronbach's alpha, and relationships between variables are analyzed using Spearman’s Rho correlation coefficient. Post-hoc analyses are performed with the Mann-Whitney U test and Bonferroni correction for significant differences. The results reveal a weak but positive correlation between social determinants of health and antibiotic use (r = 0.104). Participants reported low levels of awareness regarding their social health needs and antibiotic usage behaviors. Factors such as income level, education, and frequency of doctor visits significantly influenced antibiotic use. Misuse of antibiotics is widespread, particularly among individuals with limited healthcare access, leading to a high rate of non-prescription antibiotic use. The findings emphasize the need to enhance health literacy, improve healthcare access, and promote awareness campaigns to reduce improper antibiotic use and combat antibiotic resistance.