Assessment of knowledge and awareness of antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance among the general population: a cross-sectional study in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a mounting global health threat predominantly driven by inappropriate antibiotic use. Purpose of the study was to determine the existing knowledge and awareness of the individuals about antibiotic usage and AMR and how an educational intervention is effective in increasing the level of knowledge. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 500 adults aged between 18 and 60 in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala. A structured questionnaire adapted from WHO guidelines was used to assess knowledge. Baseline knowledge was evaluated, followed by an educational intervention and immediate post-intervention reassessment. Results: Initial results revealed moderate understanding: 45.80% correctly identified antibiotics as effective only against bacterial infections, 92.20% recognized the necessity of prescriptions, and 36.40% correctly defined AMR. Post-intervention, knowledge significantly improved across all parameters, with 100% recognizing appropriate antibiotic use and 97.40% understanding AMR. Awareness of causes and consequences of AMR, antibiotic side effects, and transmission routes also showed marked enhancement. Conclusions: The study revealed considerable knowledge gaps among the study population of adults regarding use of antibiotics and AMR. Educational interventions specifically directed at individuals are very effective in improving knowledge and awareness, thus supporting antibiotic stewardship efforts to combat AMR.