Knowledge, attitudes and practices survey on antimicrobial resistance and stewardship among pharmacy healthcare workers in 28 African countries.

introductionAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a pressing global health problem disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries. Inappropriate antimicrobial prescription and use exacerbate AMR. This study assesses the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) toward AMR and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) among pharmacy healthcare workers involved in antimicrobial dispensing across 28 African countries.

methodsAn online survey was distributed to collect data on KAP from HCWs who dispense antimicrobials in African countries. Responses were scored, and a 70% cut-off mark was used to differentiate between good and poor KAP. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with good or poor KAPs.

resultsA total of 2567 responses (40%) were received, of which 908 were from pharmacy HCWs who dispensed antibiotics in 28 countries. Of the 908 eligible respondents, 71.3% had good knowledge of AMR and AMS, 59.9% displayed good attitudes towards the burden of AMR and appropriate prescription of antimicrobials and 41.6% displayed good practices related to AMS. Patient demands and influence from pharmaceutical companies were among the factors that influenced the dispensing of antibiotics. In multivariable logistic regression, licensed pharmacists were more likely to have good knowledge of AMR than pharmacy technicians (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.78; 95% CI 1.64 to 1.93). Male dispensers were less likely to have a positive attitude towards AMR than female dispensers (aOR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.94). Moreover, dispensers affiliated with public health facilities demonstrated better AMR practices than those affiliated with private facilities. Overall, good AMR knowledge status was significantly associated with positive attitudes (χ²=97.1, p<0.001) and practices (χ²=6.5, p<0.05) of AMR.

conclusionThis study revealed limited understanding of AMR among dispensers without formal pharmaceutical training and a positive association between good knowledge and positive attitudes and practices. The findings underscore the importance of providing workplace educational materials on AMR and AMS to build capacity in healthcare institutions and promote proper antibiotic dispensing.