What does this research mean for the field?

There is a significant gap between perceived knowledge and actual practices regarding antibiotic use for upper respiratory tract infections and sore throat in Malaysia. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.NOVEL_FINDING. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.CHALLENGES_CONSENSUS.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to assess the gap between knowledge and practices regarding antibiotic use for sore throat in Malaysia.

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February 28, 2026Open Access

The Sore Throat and Antibiotic Resistance (STAR) Study in Malaysia: Nationwide Survey of Antibiotic Use for Upper Respiratory Tract Infection and Sore Throat

Key Points

The aim is to assess the gap between knowledge and practices regarding antibiotic use for sore throat in Malaysia.
Conducted a nationwide survey on antibiotic use.
Evaluated perceived knowledge and actual practices among the population.
Analyzed behaviors contributing to inappropriate antibiotic use.
Identified significant gaps between perceived knowledge and actual practices.
Found behaviors that contribute to inappropriate antibiotic use.
Emphasized the need for targeted educational interventions.

Abstract

This study found a significant gap between perceived knowledge and practice as well as behaviors that contribute to inappropriate antibiotic use. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions such as public education, improved communication between healthcare providers and patients, including the benefits of a pro-symptomatic approach to first line management.

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