Perspectives of Medical Students at Lorestan University of Medical Sciences on Antibiotic Resistance: Its Causes, Consequences, and Proposed Solutions

Introduction Today, antibiotic resistance has emerged as one of the major public health challenges worldwide. Antibiotic resistance occurs mainly due to the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. This phenomenon reduces the effectiveness of common treatments, increases the duration of illness and the risk of mortality, and imposes high costs on the health system. Since medical students, as future prescribers, play a key role in the rational management of antibiotic use, their awareness and attitudes are of particular importance. Accordingly, the present study examines the views of medical students at Lorestan University of Medical Sciences on the status of antibiotic resistance, its causes, and possible strategies to combat it. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2020 among 319 medical students at Lorestan University of Medical Sciences. Data were collected using the ReAct–Action on Antibiotic Resistance International Questionnaire, a validated instrument designed to assess perceptions of antibiotic resistance. The questionnaire, consisting of 20 items, was administered online, and the responses were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Results Students identified three major contributors to antibiotic resistance: the unrestricted use of antibiotics by patients (79%), inappropriate prescribing by physicians (61%), and inadequate diagnostic tools for detecting bacterial infections (59%). To address AMR, the strategies most frequently recommended by students included stricter regulations on antibiotic sales, strengthening public healthcare services, and improving diagnostic technologies. Responsibility for combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) was primarily attributed to physicians, pharmacists, and international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). Additionally, 36% of students believed that AMR would affect their future medical careers, while 71% expressed concern about the lack of sufficient research efforts to develop new antibiotics. Moreover, 46% reported a willingness to engage with an online platform dedicated to AMR education. Discussion The findings suggest that although medical students recognize the seriousness of antibiotic resistance, notable gaps remain in their formal education and practical training. Factors such as self-medication, inappropriate prescribing practices, and limited access to effective diagnostic tools were identified as key contributors. These observations underscore the need for curriculum reform, focused workshops, and research-oriented learning to enhance students’ roles in antibiotic stewardship and to promote the rational use of antibiotics. Conclusion The results highlight an urgent need for policy reforms aimed at regulating antibiotic use, improving diagnostic capacity, and fostering a culture of responsible antibiotic consumption in society. These measures, supported by ongoing educational initiatives, are essential for mitigating the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, as reflected in the perspectives of the student cohort.