Combatting antimicrobial resistance amidst the era of economic crisis: Public perceptions and antibiotic practices in Lebanon

This study reveals a dual challenge in Lebanon: widespread misconceptions about antibiotics are compounded by economic pressures that shape patient behavior. Our findings indicate that financial constraints directly influence antibiotic access and self-medication practices. Therefore, effective interventions require a two-pronged approach: strengthening public health education to address knowledge gaps, while simultaneously developing policy solutions to ensure equitable antibiotic access and mitigate the impact of economic hardship on appropriate use and the fight against AMR.