ATTITUDE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS ON THE USE OF ANTIBIOTICS IN AQUINAS SECONDARY SCHOOL IN ISIALA MBANO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF IMO STATE.

Abstract

The study examined the Attitude of Secondary School Students on the Use of Antibiotics in Aquinas Secondary School in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted to assess students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use. A structured questionnaire was developed and administered to a sample of 133 respondents. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS27, where descriptive and inferential statistics were used to present the results. A one-sample t-test was employed to test the stated hypotheses at a 5% level of significance. Findings revealed that while a significant number of students demonstrated awareness of antibiotics and their appropriate use, misconceptions persisted, particularly regarding the belief that antibiotics could treat all infections, including viral illnesses. Parental influence, peer pressure, and ease of access to antibiotics without prescriptions significantly shaped students' attitudes and behaviors. Many students engaged in self-medication practices, often without consulting medical professionals, contributing to the risk of antibiotic resistance. The hypothesis tests indicated a significant relationship between students’ knowledge of antibiotics and their attitudes toward use, as well as between self-medication practices and awareness of antibiotic resistance. However, peer influence was not found to have a statistically significant effect on students’ attitudes. In conclusion, the study highlighted the need for improved health education and awareness campaigns in secondary schools to address misconceptions and promote responsible antibiotic use. Strengthening regulations on over-the-counter antibiotic sales and incorporating antibiotic resistance topics into school curricula were recommended to mitigate self-medication and misuse. These findings emphasize the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in promoting rational antibiotic use among young populations.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Antibiotics are an essential class of medications used to treat bacterial infections in both humans and animals. They work by either killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth, thereby helping the immune system to fight infections more effectively (Ventola, 2015). The discovery of antibiotics, particularly penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928, revolutionized modern medicine and significantly reduced mortality and morbidity caused by bacterial infections (Arias & Murray, 2012). Antibiotics have since been widely used to treat a range of infectious diseases, contributing to improved public health and increased life expectancy (Laxminarayan et al., 2016). However, the misuse and overuse of antibiotics have led to the emergence of antibiotic resistance, which poses a major global health threat (WHO, 2020).

The attitude of secondary school students toward antibiotic use is crucial because adolescents represent a significant portion of the population who may self-medicate, influence family decisions on drug use, or develop habits that persist into adulthood (Chauhan et al., 2018). Studies have shown that misconceptions about antibiotics, including their effectiveness against viral infections such as the common cold, are prevalent among young people (Ayukekbong et al., 2017). Many adolescents mistakenly believe that antibiotics can treat viral illnesses, leading to their inappropriate use (Adegbite et al., 2021). This lack of awareness and improper use contribute to antibiotic resistance, which in turn reduces the effectiveness of these medications in treating bacterial infections (Ventola, 2015).

Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve mechanisms to survive the effects of antibiotics, making infections harder to treat (Davies & Davies, 2010). The widespread misuse of antibiotics accelerates this process, leading to prolonged illnesses, increased healthcare costs, and higher mortality rates (Llor & Bjerrum, 2014). Secondary school students may be particularly vulnerable to antibiotic misuse due to limited knowledge, easy access to medications, and peer influence (Khan et al., 2020). Understanding their attitudes and behaviors toward antibiotics is crucial in addressing this growing public health concern (WHO, 2019).

In Nigeria, access to antibiotics is relatively easy due to over-the-counter sales and limited enforcement of prescription regulations (Ocan et al., 2015). This unrestricted access contributes to high rates of self-medication and irrational drug use, particularly among young people (Akinyandenu & Akinyandenu, 2014). Studies indicate that many Nigerian adolescents self-medicate with antibiotics without understanding proper dosages or indications (Fadare et al., 2015). In rural areas like Isiala Mbano in Imo State, secondary school students may have even lower levels of awareness regarding antibiotic resistance and rational drug use (Olayemi et al., 2010). Factors influencing students' attitudes toward antibiotics include parental influence, cultural beliefs, peer pressure, and educational exposure (Oshikoya et al., 2007).

Aquinas Secondary School in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area provides a unique context for studying students' attitudes toward antibiotic use. As a rural secondary school, students may have limited access to accurate health information, making them susceptible to antibiotic misuse (Eze et al., 2018). Understanding their perceptions and behaviors can help in developing targeted educational programs to promote rational antibiotic use and prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance (Omololu-Aso et al., 2021). Schools are an ideal setting for health education, as they provide opportunities for structured learning and behavior modification (Barlam & Gupta, 2016).

Several studies have highlighted the importance of public awareness campaigns and school-based interventions in improving antibiotic stewardship (Dyar et al., 2016). Educational programs focusing on responsible antibiotic use, the dangers of self-medication, and the risks of resistance have been effective in changing student behaviors (WHO, 2018). However, there is limited research on antibiotic use attitudes among secondary school students in rural Nigerian communities, particularly in Isiala Mbano (Fadare et al., 2015). This study seeks to fill this gap by assessing the attitudes of secondary school students at Aquinas Secondary School regarding antibiotic use, the factors influencing these attitudes, and their implications for public health (WHO, 2021).

The study's findings will provide valuable insights for educators, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and public health organizations. By understanding the factors driving antibiotic misuse among secondary school students, interventions can be tailored to address these challenges effectively (Ocan et al., 2015). Additionally, the study will contribute to broader efforts aimed at controlling antibiotic resistance through targeted health education and awareness campaigns (Laxminarayan et al., 2016). Addressing antibiotic misuse at an early stage is essential in preventing long-term public health consequences and ensuring the continued efficacy of these life-saving drugs (Ventola, 2015).

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Existing research has extensively explored antibiotic resistance, self-medication, and the general misuse of antibiotics among different population groups, including university students and healthcare professionals (Fadare & Tamuno, 2021; Osemene & Lamikanra, 2022). However, there is limited empirical evidence on the attitudes of secondary school students toward antibiotic use, particularly in rural areas like Isiala Mbano. Most studies have focused on medical students or the general public, neglecting the adolescent population, which is at a crucial developmental stage where long-term health behaviors are formed (Howard et al., 2023). This gap makes it difficult to implement targeted interventions addressing misconceptions and improper antibiotic use among young individuals.

Additionally, while several studies have examined self-medication practices among university students (Sanya et al., 2023; Zafar et al., 2024), there is little focus on how secondary school students perceive antibiotic use and the factors influencing their attitudes. Adolescents are often exposed to over-the-counter antibiotics due to weak enforcement of drug regulations in Nigeria (Dyar et al., 2023). Many students may not understand the dangers of antibiotic misuse, including resistance, allergic reactions, and potential health complications. Without adequate awareness, students may unknowingly contribute to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (Rice, 2022).

Furthermore, the role of cultural and parental influences on adolescents’ attitudes toward antibiotic use has not been adequately explored in previous research. Studies have mainly examined the knowledge and behaviors of healthcare professionals and university students (Moongtui et al., 2021; Garcia et al., 2021), while ignoring how parental guidance, peer influence, and school education shape secondary school students' perceptions. Understanding these influences is crucial for developing effective awareness campaigns and educational interventions.

Another critical research gap is the lack of region-specific studies addressing antibiotic attitudes in rural Nigerian secondary schools. Most available literature focuses on urban settings, where access to healthcare professionals and awareness campaigns is relatively higher (Thriemer et al., 2023; Khan et al., 2023). Rural students may have different levels of exposure to health information, leading to varied perceptions and practices regarding antibiotics. This study aims to bridge these gaps by investigating the attitudes of students in Aquinas Secondary School, Isiala Mbano, providing insights that can inform policies, school curricula, and public health initiatives.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to assess the attitude of secondary school students toward the use of antibiotics in Aquinas Secondary School, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area. The specific objectives are:

1. To determine the level of knowledge secondary school students have about antibiotics, including their uses and risks.
2. To examine the factors that influence students’ attitudes toward antibiotic use, including parental influence, peer pressure, and access to information.
3. To evaluate the extent to which students engage in self-medication with antibiotics and their understanding of antibiotic resistance.

1.4 Research Questions

The study seeks to answer the following research questions:

1. What level of knowledge do secondary school students have about antibiotics and their appropriate use?
2. What factors influence the attitude of secondary school students toward antibiotic use?
3. To what extent do secondary school students engage in self-medication with antibiotics, and how aware are they of antibiotic resistance?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

The study will test the following hypotheses:

1. There is no significant relationship between students’ knowledge of antibiotics and their attitude toward their use.
2. Peer influence does not significantly affect students’ attitudes toward the use of antibiotics.
3. There is no significant relationship between students’ self-medication practices and their awareness of antibiotic resistance.

1.6 Significance of the Study

The findings of this study will be beneficial to various stakeholders, including students, educators, healthcare providers, policymakers, and public health organizations. By examining the attitudes of secondary school students toward antibiotic use, this research will contribute valuable insights that can help address antibiotic misuse and promote responsible practices.

Students will benefit from a deeper understanding of the importance of responsible antibiotic use. Many young individuals engage in self-medication due to a lack of awareness about the risks associated with improper antibiotic consumption. This study will help them recognize the dangers of self-medication, the necessity of adhering to prescribed treatments, and the broader consequences of antibiotic resistance. By fostering knowledge at an early age, students can develop healthier behaviors that contribute to public health efforts in combating antimicrobial resistance.

Educators, including teachers and school administrators, will gain essential information to enhance their curriculum and health education programs. Schools serve as primary centers for knowledge dissemination, and integrating antibiotic awareness into educational materials can help students make informed decisions about medication use. The findings of this study can guide the development of school-based interventions aimed at improving awareness of antibiotic use and resistance, ensuring that students receive accurate information from credible sources.

Healthcare providers will find the study useful in identifying common misconceptions and gaps in knowledge among adolescents regarding antibiotic use. Understanding these misconceptions will enable healthcare professionals to develop better communication strategies tailored to young people. Physicians, pharmacists, and other medical professionals can use these insights to provide clearer guidance on antibiotic prescriptions and educate patients on the dangers of misuse, reducing the prevalence of self-medication and improper antibiotic use among students.

Policymakers can use the study’s findings to make informed decisions regarding the regulation and sale of antibiotics, particularly in rural areas where access to over-the-counter medications is widespread. Strengthening prescription regulations and implementing stricter control measures can help curb the misuse of antibiotics and reduce the risk of resistance development. Additionally, policies that promote antibiotic stewardship programs in schools and communities can be informed by the study’s outcomes.

Public health organizations will benefit from this research by gaining data that can enhance their efforts to control antibiotic resistance through targeted interventions and awareness campaigns. The study’s insights will support the design of evidence-based strategies to educate communities, advocate for responsible antibiotic use, and encourage collaboration among stakeholders to tackle the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance effectively.

1.7 Scope of the Study

This study focuses on the attitude of secondary school students toward antibiotic use in Aquinas Secondary School, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State. It examines students' knowledge, practices, and the factors influencing their attitudes toward antibiotics. The study does not extend to primary school students, tertiary institution students, or individuals outside the school setting. Additionally, while the study considers various factors influencing antibiotic use, it does not explore the biochemical mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in detail.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

Antibiotics: A class of drugs used to treat bacterial infections by killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth.

Antibiotic Resistance: A condition in which bacteria become resistant to the effects of an antibiotic, making infections harder to treat.

Self-Medication: The practice of using medication, including antibiotics, without a doctor's prescription or guidance.

Attitude: The way students think, feel, and behave toward the use of antibiotics.

Misuse of Antibiotics: The improper use of antibiotics, such as taking them without a prescription, using them for viral infections, or not completing the prescribed dosage.

Prescription Drugs: Medications that are legally required to be dispensed only with a valid prescription from a healthcare provider.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drugs: Medications that can be purchased without a prescription, which may include some antibiotics in certain settings.

Public Health: The field concerned with protecting and improving the health of people and communities through education, policy-making, and disease prevention.