Public Awareness in Kazakhstan Regarding the Rational Use of Antimicrobial Drugs: Analysis and Prospects

Abstract

Nowadays, antimicrobial resistance is suggested to be the most alarming problem for the future of human beings, already leading to millions of deaths annually. In Kazakhstan, the AMR-related mortality rate is also worrisome and requires local authorities’ attention and urgent actions aimed to increase public awareness and reduce cases of antibiotic misuse and overuse. This paper aims to study the basic knowledge, attitudes and practices(KAP) regarding antibiotics and antibacterial resistance among the population of Kazakhstan. Other purposes of this study include identifying main factors that cause the misuse and possible ways of increasing public awareness. To achieve the goals, a cross-sectional online survey was conducted in different cities of Kazakhstan online via WhatsApp and Telegram messengers. Overall, 189 responses were collected and analyzed in Excel software using Chi-square tests for independence. According to results, there are critical gaps revealed in understanding of basic properties of antimicrobial medications and their proper use. 56% and 34.4% of respondents believed that antibiotics are effective against common colds or can kill viruses. 62% of those who received antibiotic treatment did not undergo accurate diagnostics of the disease, and about 37% of all participants purchased antibiotics without prescription. Analysis revealed no significant association between demographic factors and KAP. In conclusion, the study highlights the urgent need for implementing information campaigns aimed to increase public awareness, tightening regulations on antibiotic sales, and improving prescription policies.