Abstract
Background: Antibiotic resistance (AR) emergence and spread has become one of the global health concerns. Irrational prescribing, improper use and self-medication of antibiotics (AB) are main factors contributing to spread of AR. The main objective of this study is to compare and evaluate irrational AB use and factors contributing to AR among medical and non-medical university students of Lahore, Pakistan.
Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from May 1 2024 to July 1 2024, among medical and non-medical university students in Lahore. A sample of 500 students (250 medical, 250 non-medicals) was selected. Data were collected via electronic and printed validated questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 27, with Chi-square and logistic regression analysis determining statistical significance (p < 0.05).
Results: Chi-square test revealed gender (p < 0.001), study background (p < 0.001), and lack of cautiousness about AR (p = 0.045) as significant factors contributed to AR. Logistic regression further confirmed gender and study background as significant predictors contributed to AR . So, male students had 70% higher experience of acquiring AR than female students (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.70). The medical students had 42% lower experience of acquiring AR than the non-medical students (AOR = 0.58).
Conclusion: This study concludes that irrational AB use is higher among male students and those from non-medical discipline. It is crucial to implement comprehensive legal regulations for AB control, along with AB stewardship initiatives across different groups of Pakistan.