Pages: (108-126 )
Abstract
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global public health threat, affecting human, animal and environmental health. The inappropriate use of antibiotics leads to the emergence of resistant microorganisms. This study assessed knowledge, perceptions and practice of antibiotic stewardship among physicians and veterinarians. Antibiotic stewardship (ABS) programs are essential to promote responsible antibiotic use within the One Health framework. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among physicians and veterinarians in Lagos State, Nigeria, using structured questionnaires distributed both physically and online. The data was analyzed using chi-square to determine possible associations between variables knowledge, perception and practice about antibiotic stewardship. Correlation and Logistic Regression were determined. Results: Out of 274 respondents, 91.6% of physicians and 77.4% of veterinarians demonstrated good knowledge of ABS. Positive perceptions were observed in 77.9% of physicians and 64.3% of veterinarians, while good practice levels were reported among 62.6% of physicians and 50.0% of veterinarians. Significant correlations were found between knowledge and perception (r = .190, p = .002) and between perception and practice (r = .379, p < .001). Conclusion: The findings indicated that most of the respondents had good knowledge, positive perception and good practices. There were statistically significant associations (p<0.05) in the levels of knowledge, perception and practice between physicians and veterinarians.
Keywords: Antimicrobial Resistance, Antibiotic Stewardship, Knowledge, One Health Approach, Perception, Practice,