Community Knowledge and Behavior Regarding Antibiotic Use in Kampung Empat Urban Village, Tarakan City

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections; however, inappropriate antibiotic use remains common and may contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to determine community knowledge and behavior regarding antibiotic use in Kampung Empat Subdistrict, Tarakan City. This study employed a mixed-methods design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 100 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Data on knowledge were collected using a closed-ended questionnaire, while data on behavior were collected using an open-ended questionnaire. The data were analyzed descriptively and using the Chi-square test. The results showed that respondents' knowledge was predominantly categorized as poor (42%), followed by good (37%) and moderate (21%). Overall, antibiotic use behavior based on the DAGUSIBU principles was generally good; however, purchasing antibiotics without a prescription and improper antibiotic disposal practices were still identified. Age, educational level, and occupation were significantly associated with respondents' knowledge (p<0.05), whereas gender was not significantly associated (p>0.05). In conclusion, community knowledge regarding antibiotic use in Kampung Empat Subdistrict, Tarakan City was predominantly poor, whereas antibiotic use behavior based on the DAGUSIBU principles was generally good despite the persistence of several inappropriate practices.