Differing terminology used to describe antimicrobial resistance can influence comprehension and subsequent behavioural intent.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite global campaigns, the public's understanding of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a global emergency remains limited. Behaviour change is crucial in preserving antimicrobials but requires improved understanding of AMR at a population level.

Methods

Members of the public co-designed intervention arms, selecting three alternatives to AMR to be evaluated in a four-armed online randomised behavioural experiment. The primary outcome was attitudes towards AMR. Secondary and exploratory outcomes included comprehension, behavioural intent and recall.

Results

In April 2024, 4296 participants completed the online survey. Antibiotic Resistance is the most effective terminology for attitudes towards AMR (p < 3.95E-06), comprehension (p = 0.013) and recall (p < 

SUBMITTER: Grailey K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12041392 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature