Antibiotic Use Behaviors and Influencing Factors Among Adult Patients Attending Family Health Centers: A Theory of Planned Behavior Approach
ABSTRACT
Objective:
This study aimed to assess antibiotic use behaviors among adults attending family health centers in a district of İstanbul, using the Theory of Planned Behavior. The study also examined socio-demographic variables influencing attitudes, subjective norms, and intentions related to antibiotic use.
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 151 literate adults aged 18 and above. A structured questionnaire measured demographic data and antibiotic-related knowledge, attitudes, subjective norms, and intentions. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests due to non-normal distribution.
Results:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 151 literate adults aged 18 and above. A structured questionnaire measured demographic data and antibiotic-related knowledge, attitudes, subjective norms, and intentions. Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests due to non-normal distribution.
Conclusion:
While general awareness of appropriate antibiotic use was high, misconceptions such as favoring injectables and keeping antibiotics in reserve persisted. Gender and household size influenced social norms, and behavioral intentions were shaped by access and past practices. Interventions should prioritize educational programs, early health literacy efforts, and physician-patient communication to reduce misuse.
Keywords:
Antibiotic use,
public health,
theory of planned behavior,
social norms,
health literacy,
medication misuse.
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