Antibiotic Stewardship in the Elderly: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Literacy and Practices in Vietnam
Abstract
Background: : /Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a disproportionate mortality risk to older adults, yet this demographic is often overlooked in stewardship interventions compared to the general population or other at-risk/vulnerable groups. While awareness campaigns exist, it remains unclear how knowledge gaps influence antibiotic usage behaviors among the elderly in lower middle-income settings like Vietnam. This study evaluates antibiotic literacy and usage patterns among older adults (aged ≥ 60 years) in Hanoi, identifies sociodemographic predictors of these domains, and determines whether knowledge deficits predict inappropriate practices.
Methods:: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 177 retired individuals aged 60-86 years (44% male, 56% female) in Gia Lam Commune, Hanoi, via face-to-face interviews. A structured questionnaire, adapted from World Health Organization and validated regional studies, assessed demographics, knowledge, AMR awareness, and practices. Multivariable linear regression identified independent predictors of these outcome scores.
Results:: Usage prevalence was high; 60% of participants reported taking antibiotics in the past year. Although 91% acknowledged the personal threat of "antibiotic resistance", profound functional misconceptions persisted: 58% failed to distinguish antibiotics from analgesics (paracetamol), and 67% incorrectly believed antibiotics are effective for treating fever. Of concern, 95.5% mistakenly…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 177 participants or records.
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