A Survey of the Awareness and Practices of Antibiotic use Among College Undergraduates and Graduates in Latakia

Antibiotic resistance has become a global health crisis, posing a significant threat to our ability to treat bacterial infections. Over the years, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in both humans and animals have contributed to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This leads to longer and more complicated treatment courses, increased healthcare costs, and in some cases untreatable infections. In this study, a survey was conducted on antibiotic use among college undergraduates and graduates in Latakia. The age of 42.2% of participants was 20–25 years. More than half of the participants were male (55.9%). Most responses were from college undergraduates 51%, either of final-year students or graduates. Most of them had used antibiotics with prescriptions. The highest rate of antibiotic use was for sore throat treatment (47.1%). Most participants completed the antibiotic courses and their symptoms improved (70.6%). Black and red pills remained effective for most patients (67.6%). 68.6% of the participants would consult a doctor if symptoms did not improve after taking antibiotics. 62.7% of the participants didn’t give antibiotics to a family member when they were sick. 52.9% of the participants reserve antibiotics for use when necessary. Half of the participants would take the leftover antibiotics in case of respiratory diseases. The results didn’t show a good level of knowledge about antibiotic use among college undergraduates and graduates in Latakia. This study encourages the improvement of the public knowledge and their attitudes towards the appropriate use of antibiotics.