Attitude and Practices of Antibiotic Use and Resistance Among Parents of Under‐5 Children

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a major global health threat, often fueled by the misuse of antibiotics in community settings. This cross-sectional study explored the attitudes and practices of 400 parents of children under 5 years of age in urban and peri-urban Pune, India, using a validated structured questionnaire. Findings revealed a mix of responsible and inappropriate behaviors: 75% of parents consulted a doctor before giving antibiotics, yet 60% believed antibiotics were the first-line treatment for any illness, 45% did not complete prescribed courses, and 40% used leftover antibiotics without consultation. Logistic regression identified income as a significant predictor of both attitudes and practices, with average-income parents less likely to demonstrate positive attitudes (odds ratio [OR] = 0.543, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.312-0.947, p = 0.031) or good practices (OR = 0.496, 95% CI: 0.286-0.862, p = 0.013) compared to above-average income groups. Education level showed no statistically significant associations, though lower education appeared to trend toward poorer practices. These results highlight persistent misconceptions and risky practices despite high reported trust in healthcare providers. Interventions must therefore extend beyond general awareness, addressing socioeconomic disparities, regulating over-the-counter access, and strengthening community-based education to promote rational antibiotic use and mitigate AMR.