Investigator(s)
| WHO Technical Officer |
Faiha Ibrahim National professional officer, Health Emergencies WCO, Maldives Faiha Ibrahim 
|
| Principal Investigator |
Thooma Adam Deputy Director General of Maldives Food and Drug Authority Thooma Adam
|
Title(s) and abstract
| Scientific title | Knowledge, Attitude, and the Practice of Antibiotic Use among the Public in Maldives |
| Public title | Knowledge, Attitude, and the Practice of Antibiotic Use among the Public in Maldives |
| Background | Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) has been recognized by WHO as one of the major threats to public health. The issue mainly stems from the misuse and irrational use of antibiotics in humans and food systems. Several efforts have been taken at national level to address the global issue including the formulation of National AMR Committee, endorsement of a National Action Plan (NAP 2017 – 2022) for coordinated efforts, and steps to enhance AMR surveillance and monitoring. However, the availability and comprehensiveness of local data on AMR is limited. There is no conclusive evidence to establish the current state of public awareness on AMR in the country due to absence of any local studies in the area. |
| Objectives | The objective of the study therefore is to evaluate and assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) associated with Antibiotic use among the public in Maldives. The main aim of this study is to evaluate the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) associated with Antibiotic use among the residents of the Maldives. Individual objectives of the study include: • Evaluate the current level of knowledge regarding antimicrobial use among residents of the Maldives • Determine public attitudes and the influencing factors towards the use of antibiotics and their perceptions of AMR. • Examine the practices related to antibiotic use that contribute to the development of AMR among the population. • Assess how knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotic use vary across different demographic groups • Provide data to inform the development of the National AMR communication strategy and offer recommendations for targeted interventions |
| Study Methods | A cross-sectional survey will be conducted using proportionate random sampling (n =768) to target the total population of the Maldives. The survey instrument is based on the 'WHO Antibiotic Resistance: Multi-Country Public Awareness Survey' tool and adapted for the Maldivian context. It is divided into following sections: sociodemographic characteristics; knowledge of antibiotics; use of antibiotics; knowledge of antibiotics resistance; and use of antibiotics in animals and agriculture. The questionnaire will be administered through face-to-face interviews and the data evaluated by performing a number statistical analysis using SPSS. |
| Expected outcomes and use of results | The study is expected to produce the following key outcomes: provide insights into the level of understanding that the public has about antibiotics; help uncover public attitudes and beliefs regarding antibiotic usage; shed light on antibiotic usage patterns by examining antibiotic usage practices; gauge the level of public awareness of the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to combat antibiotic resistance. The study will provide valuable data for designing targeted interventions to address gaps in antibiotic knowledge and tailored strategies for promoting responsible antibiotic use, The information will contribute to the development of a National Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) communication strategy and plan in the Maldives. |
| Keywords | AMR, GAP, NRL, MFDA, WHO, SEARO, NAP, KAP |
Research Details
| Student research | No |
| Start Date | 01-Jun-2024 |
| End Date | 30-Apr-2025 |
| Key Implementing Institution | Maldives National University |
| Multi-country research | No |
| Nationwide research | Yes |
| Research Domain(s) | Health Systems Research, Non-communicable diseases & Healthy Lifestyles |
| Research field(s) | |
| Involves human subjects | Yes |
| Data Collection | Primary data |
| Proposal reviewed by other Committee | Final decision available |