Knowledge, Perceptions, and Behaviors Regarding Antibiotic Use in a Community-Based Adult Sample in Salerno: An Observational Survey in a Province in Southern Italy.

ABSTRACT: Background/Objectives: Antibiotic resistance represents one of the major global health emergencies, driven by the inappropriate use of antibiotics and persistent misconceptions among adults attending general medical clinics. This study, conducted on 325 participants recruited from general medical clinics in the province of Salerno, aimed to assess their knowledge, perceptions, and behaviors regarding antibiotic use. Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative observational survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire based on the WHO tool and adapted to the local context. Results: The results show that the majority of participants take antibiotics only when prescribed by a doctor (90.2%), but risky practices such as self-medication (10%) and early discontinuation

SUBMITTER: Santoro E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12649112 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature