Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Antibiotic Use and Associated Factors among Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Vietnam

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However, they are also the most commonly misused drug group. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess patients’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use at a medical center in Vietnam. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted prospectively using data obtained from survey questionnaires that met the inclusion criteria and did not violate the exclusion criteria from April to October 2024 at the Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station, Tan Uyen City, Binh Duong Province, Vietnam. Results A total of 500 valid responses were analyzed, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.78; the mean knowledge score regarding antibiotic use was 8.66 ± 2.14, with 71.4% classified as having ‘good’ knowledge; the mean attitude score was 7.93 ± 1.98, with 73.4% rated as ‘good’ and 68.8% disagreeing with self-purchasing antibiotics; and the mean practice score was 8.10 ± 1.65, with 74.2% demonstrating ‘good’ practices. Factors associated with knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antibiotic use included age group, place of residence, educational level, occupation, monthly income, and health insurance. Conclusion Most patients demonstrated positive knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use; however, strengthened health education and communication are still needed to help reduce antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics knowledge attitudes practices Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 1. Introduction Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health challenge that threatens the effectiveness of modern medicine. Irrational antibiotic use — such as self-medication, over-the-counter purchases, and premature discontinuation — remains a key driver of AMR [ 1 ], [ 2 ]. Beyond clinical consequences, this behavior increases treatment costs and prolongs hospital stays, creating a significant socioeconomic burden. Studies from low- and middle-income countries have consistently shown that gaps in patient knowledge, misconceptions about antibiotic indications, and poor adherence contribute to inappropriate use [ 3 ], [ 4 ]. While awareness of antibiotics is often high, many individuals continue to expect antibiotics for viral infections or discontinue treatment early, indicating a persistent gap between knowledge and practice [ 5 ], [ 6 ], [ 7 ]. These findings highlight that education alone may not be sufficient; behavioral and contextual factors must also be addressed to promote responsible antibiotic use. Vietnam faces a similar challenge, with antibiotic still relatively easy to access and AMR rates rising steadily, while studies assessing knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP) related to antibiotic use in the community remain relatively limited [ 8 ]. In this context, conducting a study to evaluate the current situation of antibiotic use in Thanh Phuoc commune is not only essential but also highly practical, providing the scientific evidence needed to guide local antimicrobial resistance control strategies. Therefore, the study titled “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Antibiotic Use and Associated Factors among Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Vietnam” was conducted. 2. Methods 2.1. Design and setting of the study A prospective, cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among patients attending the Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station, Tan Uyen City, Binh Duong Province, Vietnam, from April to October 2024. Data were collected using structured KAP questionnaires designed to assess patients’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use. 2.2. Sample size and sampling type Sample size The sample size was determined using the formula for estimating a single population proportion: $$\:n=\frac{{z}^{2}\times\:p\times\:\left(1-p\right)}{{e}^{2}}$$ Where: n = required sample size; z = standard normal value corresponding to the selected confidence level (z = 1.96 for 95% confidence); e = margin of error (set at 5%), p = estimated prevalence (p = 0.736, based on the proportion of patients who correctly stated that antibiotics kill bacteria [ 9 ]) The minimum sample size required was 299. Sampling Method A simple random sampling technique was applied. The total sample was proportionally distributed across months to ensure a similar number of participants per month. Questionnaires were sequentially numbered from 01 until the required sample size was reached. 2.3. Inclusion criteria and Exclusion criteria Inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria are presented in Table 1 . Table 1 Inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria Inclusion criteria Exclusion criteria - Patients aged ≥ 18 years, preferably those with knowledge of or prior use of antibiotics - Patients who had ability to communicate, comprehend, read, and respond independently - Patients willing to participate and provide informed consent - Patients who complete the entire questionnaire - Patients unwilling to participate or provide personal data - Foreign nationals - Patients unable to complete the questionnaire 2.4. Study Variables - Demographic characteristics including gender, age group, place of residence, education level, occupation, income, and health insurance participation. - KAP variables including knowledge about antibiotics, attitudes towards antibiotic use, practices, reasons for specific practices, and categorical classification (good/average/poor) [ 9 ]. - Correlation testing between KAP scores and the independent variables (gender, age group, place of residence, education level, occupation, income, and health insurance participation) were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis tests. 2.5. Statistical analysis Data collection Data were collected using paper-based questionnaires that were directly distributed to patients. Participants were instructed on how to complete the forms to ensure independence, anonymity, and confidentiality. The questionnaire assessing KAP regarding antibiotic use was referenced from the study by Ngo Thao Nguyen and Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy (2017) [ 9 ] and modified to fit the context of the Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station. Error control Double data entry and cross-checking were performed to minimize errors. Participants were given clear instructions before completing the survey. Statistical analysis Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 16.63.1 and SPSS version 22.0. Results were presented in tables and figures. Statistical significance was assessed at a 95% confidence level. Associated factors including relationships between demographics and KAP were tested using appropriate statistical methods and hypothesis testing (H₀ and H₁). Scoring system Knowledge score: 11 questions on antibiotic use, resistance, and side effects (1 point per correct response). Scores were converted to a 10-point scale: $$\:\text{K}\text{n}\text{o}\text{w}\text{l}\text{e}\text{d}\text{g}\text{e}\:\text{s}\text{c}\text{o}\text{r}\text{e}\:\left(10-\text{p}\text{o}\text{i}\text{n}\text{t}\:\text{s}\text{c}\text{a}\text{l}\text{e}\right)=\frac{\text{R}\text{a}\text{w}\:\text{s}\text{c}\text{o}\text{r}\text{e}}{11}\text{x}\:10$$ Attitude score: 11 questions on purchasing and using antibiotics (same scoring and conversion as knowledge). Practice score: 14 items assessing purchase, use, and storage behaviors. For appropriate behaviors, responses were scored 4 (“always”) to 0 (“never”); for inappropriate behaviors, scoring was reversed. Maximum total = 56 points, converted to a 10-point scale: $$\:\text{P}\text{r}\text{a}\text{c}\text{t}\text{i}\text{c}\text{e}\:\text{s}\text{c}\text{o}\text{r}\text{e}\:\left(10-\text{p}\text{o}\text{i}\text{n}\text{t}\:\text{s}\text{c}\text{a}\text{l}\text{e}\right)=\frac{\text{R}\text{a}\text{w}\:\text{s}\text{c}\text{o}\text{r}\text{e}}{56}\text{x}\:10$$ KAP scores were classified as poor (< 5), average (5–7), and good (8–10). 3. Results A total of 500 valid questionnaires from patients using antibiotics at Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station were analyzed. Statistical results are presented in tables and figures. 3.1. Proportion and level of knowledge, attitudes, practices regarding antibiotic use Characteristics of the study sample Table 1 Demographic characteristics of the study population Characteristics Frequency Percentage (%) Gender Male 180 36.0 Female 320 64.0 Age group 18–29 129 25.8 30–49 208 41.6 Place of residence Urban 104 20.8 Rural 396 79.2 Education level Primary/secondary school 21 4.2 High school 360 72.0 College/Vocational 31 6.2 University/Postgraduate 88 17.6 Occupation Student 65 13.0 Business/Trade 74 14.8 Office staff 47 9.4 Manual labor 238 47.6 Others 76 15.2 Monthly income (VND) No income 57 11.4 10 million 75 15.0 Health insurance No 8 1.6 Yes 492 98.4 According to Table 1 , the study recorded a female-to-male ratio of 1.78:1, with the majority of participants aged 30–49 years (41.6%). Most respondents lived in rural areas (79.2%) compared to urban areas (20.8%). High school was the most common education level (72.0%). The majority reported a monthly income between 5 and 10 million VND (69.4%). Nearly all participants were covered by health insurance (98.4%), while only 1.6% reported having no health insurance. Assessment of knowledge on antibiotic use Note * indicates a correct statement. As shown in Fig. 1 , most participants correctly recognized that antibiotics kill bacteria (93.8%), yet 21.4% mistakenly believed they kill viruses, 17% associated them with flu treatment, and 16.6% thought they relieve pain. Regarding antibiotic resistance, 95% defined it correctly and 94.4% knew it can make infections difficult or impossible to treat. However, 6% did not agree or were unaware that unnecessary use contributes to resistance, and 7.2% underestimated the impact of incomplete treatment courses. Knowledge of adverse effects was relatively high: 75.2% disagreed that antibiotics are completely safe, and over 90% were aware of risks such as diarrhea (93.0%), allergic reactions, and even death (91.2%). Assessment of attitudes toward antibiotic use Note * indicates a correct statement. According to Fig. 2 , about 22.8% of respondents believed that the price of antibiotics determines their treatment effectiveness, and 22.4% thought imported antibiotics are always superior to domestic ones despite having the same active ingredients. Misconceptions about treating influenza were also noted, with 22.4% believing antibiotics hasten symptom relief and 21.2% believing they prevent cold complications. Attitudes toward appropriate purchasing and use were generally favorable, with 97.8% agreeing that prescriptions are required for adult antibiotic purchases and 95.2% for children. Furthermore, 96.0% agreed they should report any antibiotic allergies, and 92.4% believed antibiotics should be taken as directed. However, 21.2% still thought antibiotics should be discontinued once symptoms improve, and 23.6% incorrectly believed that strong antibiotics should be used from the outset. Assessment of practices regarding antibiotic use Assessment of practices regarding antibiotic use is shown in Fig. 3 . [Figure 3 was sent as Additional File 1 and should be here] The majority reported always purchasing antibiotics with a doctor’s prescription for themselves (82.4%) and for children (79.4%). Most participants never purchased antibiotics based on others’ advice (61.6%), old prescriptions (61.2%), or personal experience (63.6%). A total of 64% never purchased antibiotics of unknown origin, and 62.6% never requested a higher dose when symptoms did not improve. Only 3.4% reported always buying antibiotics without a prescription, while 60.4% stated they never did so. The main reason for buying antibiotics without prescription was to save time (21.0%), while 85.0% of parents reported buying unprescribed antibiotics for children due to their sensitivity to medication. Regarding proper use and storage, 80.6% always adhered to treatment duration and dosage, 79.8% regularly checked expiration dates, and 80.0% stored antibiotics away from sunlight. However, some inappropriate practices were still observed: 2.6% always took antibiotics with tea or juice, 5.2% frequently stopped when symptoms improved, and 4.4% often reused leftover antibiotics. Among those not completing the full course, the most common reason was forgetting the dosing schedule (81.0%), followed by adverse effects (77.6%) and fear of taking antibiotics (76.2%). The lowest proportion (61.6%) stopped early because they felt recovered. Knowledge, attitude, and practice scores on antibiotic use KAP scores on antibiotic use are presented in Table 2 . Table 2 KAP scores on antibiotic use Variable Mean ± SD Median (IQR) Category Poor n (%) Average n (%) Good n (%) Knowledge 8.66 ± 2.14 10.00 (6.36-10.00) 36 (7.2%) 107 (21.4%) 357 (71.4%) Attitude 7.93 ± 1.98 9.09 (7.27–9.09) 102 (20.4%) 31 (6.2%) 367 (73.4%) Practice 8.10 ± 1.65 9.23 (7.50–9.23) 39 (7.8%) 90 (18.0%) 371 (74.2%) Note: SD = standard deviation; IQR = interquartile range. According to Table 2 , the mean knowledge score was 8.66 ± 2.14 (median 10.00), with 71.4% of participants classified as having good knowledge and only 7.2% as poor. The mean attitude score was 7.93 ± 1.98 (median 9.09); 73.4% demonstrated good attitudes, with a left-skewed distribution indicating overall positive attitudes toward antibiotic use. The mean practice score was 8.10 ± 1.65 (median 9.23); 74.2% were classified as having good practices, nearly three times higher than the combined proportion of the poor and average groups. Overall, the findings suggest that the majority of respondents demonstrated good KAP regarding antibiotic use. 3.2. Association between demographic factors with knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding antibiotic use This study employed non-parametric tests (Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis) to analyze the factors influencing KAP related to antibiotic use. Table 3 Association between demographic characteristics and KAP scores related to antibiotic use Knowledge Attitudes Practice Mean ± SD p # Mean ± SD p # Mean ± SD p # Gender Male (n = 180) 8.58 ± 2.07 0.31 7.75 ± 2.1 0.11 8.05 ± 1.68 0.93 Female (n = 320) 8.71 ± 2.19 8.04 ± 1.9 8.13 ± 1.63 Age group 18–29 (n = 129) 7.67 ± 2.44 < 0.05 6.89 ± 2.34 < 0.05 7.05 ± 2.01 < 0.05 30–49 (n = 208) 9.09 ± 1.77 8.18 ± 1.76 8.38 ± 1.45 ≥ 50 (n = 163) 8.90 ± 2.10 8.45 ± 1.59 8.56 ± 1.14 Place of residence Urban (n = 104) 6.25 ± 2.03 < 0.05 5.30 ± 1.78 < 0.05 5.60 ± 1.28 < 0.05 Rural (n = 396) 9.29 ± 1.68 8.63 ± 1.34 8.75 ± 0.97 Education level Primary/secondary school (n = 21) 5.24 ± 2.77 < 0.05 5.02 ± 1.74 < 0.05 5.71 ± 1.2 < 0.05 High school (n = 360) 9.14 ± 1.78 8.47 ± 1.55 8.58 ± 1.23 College/Vocational (n = 31) 8.71 ± 2.08 7.8 ± 2.06 7.98 ± 1.79 University/Postgraduate (n = 88) 7.49 ± 2.22 6.47 ± 2.22 6.75 ± 1.93 Occupation Student (n = 65) 6.8 ± 2.61 < 0.05 6.2 ± 2.31 < 0.05 6.54 ± 1.90 < 0.05 Business/Trade (n = 74) 7.16 ± 2.48 6.51 ± 2.25 6.74 ± 1.94 Office staff (n = 47) 9.17 ± 1.47 8.34 ± 1.7 8.40 ± 1.54 Manual labor (n = 238) 9.46 ± 1.36 8.65 ± 1.3 8.76 ± 0.91 Others (n = 76) 8.9 ± 2.04 8.33 ± 1.72 8.50 ± 1.31 Monthly income (VND) No income (n = 57) 6.89 ± 2.83 < 0.05 6.44 ± 2.34 < 0.05 6.75 ± 1.94 < 0.05 10 million (n = 75) 7.66 ± 2.22 6.63 ± 2.28 6.85 ± 2.00 Health insurance Yes (n = 492) 8.73 ± 2.06 < 0.05 7.98 ± 1.95 < 0.05 8.14 ± 1.62 < 0.05 No (n = 8) 4.32 ± 2.65 5.0 ± 0.84 5.41 ± 1.01 According to Table 3 , the study identified that factors associated with KAP scores regarding antibiotic use included age group, place of residence, educational level, occupation, income, and health insurance participation (p < 0.05). 4. Discussion This study analyzed 500 valid questionnaires from patients attending Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station. The findings revealed a higher proportion of females (64.0%), with the majority aged 30–49 years (41.6%) and residing in rural areas (79.2%). The mean knowledge score regarding antibiotic use was 8.66 ± 2.14, with 71.4% classified as having ‘good’ knowledge; the mean attitude score was 7.93 ± 1.98, with 73.4% rated as ‘good’ and 68.8% disagreeing with self-purchasing antibiotics; and the mean practice score was 8.10 ± 1.65, with 74.2% demonstrating ‘good’ practices. Most respondents consistently purchased antibiotics with a physician’s prescription (82.4%), adhered to prescribed duration and dosage (80.6%), and stored antibiotics properly (80.0%). Nevertheless, some inappropriate behaviors persisted, including discontinuation of treatment upon symptom and reuse of leftover antibiotics (4.4%). Statistical analysis indicated that KAP scores were significantly associated with age group, place of residence, educational level, occupation, income, and health insurance coverage (p < 0.05). The study found that 93.8% of respondents correctly understood that antibiotics kill bacteria; however, 21.4% still mistakenly believed that antibiotics can kill viruses. These findings are consistent with a study conducted in Bangladesh, which reported that approximately 80.49% of participants correctly recognized the antibacterial of antibiotics, yet 90.7% believed that antibiotics were effective against viruses [ 5 ]. This study also documented that 94% of participants agreed that unnecessary antibiotic use and 92.8% agreed that failure to complete the prescribed treatment course are major contributors to antimicrobial resistance. These results highlight the need to maintain and expand community-based educational interventions on appropriate antibiotic use—which have demonstrated effectiveness [ 10 ], though their impact varies across settings [ 11 ] and can be optimized by prioritizing widely accessed media channels such as television and trusted sources like healthcare professionals [ 12 ]. Regarding knowledge of antibiotic side effects, most respondents recognized serious reactions such as life-threatening allergies (91.2%) and diarrhea (93.0%); however, 20.0% still believed that antibiotics are “safe and have no serious side effects,” a concerning misconception that aligns with previous research indicating that the public often underestimates the risks associated with antibiotic use [ 13 ]. The mean knowledge score on antibiotic use in this study was 8.66 ± 2.14 (on a 10-point scale), considerably higher than the findings from a study of 997 Vietnamese adults, which reported a mean score of 14.290 ± 5.930 on a 30-point scale (equivalent to approximately 4.76/10) [ 14 ]. This further underscores the urgent need for educational and health communication programs aimed at improving public understanding of rational antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance. In terms of knowledge classification, 71.4% of participants demonstrated “Good” knowledge (8–10 points), which is substantially higher than the 43.92% reported in a recent meta-analysis [ 13 ] and also exceeds the 59.1% of non-medical university students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia who had adequate knowledge of antibiotics [ 15 ]. Beyond knowledge, patients’ attitudes also significantly influence their antibiotic use behaviors. Most participants demonstrated appropriate attitudes, with 78.8% disagreeing that ‘antibiotics prevent colds from becoming severe’ and 77.6% rejecting the belief that ‘antibiotics help relieve cold symptoms quickly,’ reflecting a correct understanding of the viral nature of the common cold. However, 21.2% and 22.4%, respectively, continued to hold these misconceptions, indicating a potential risk of inappropriate antibiotic use. These misunderstandings are consistent with findings from Marion E. Davis et al. in the United States, where many patients believed that antibiotics ‘provide very rapid symptom relief’ [ 16 ]. Such perceptions are influenced by knowledge, previous experience with infection and treatment, attitudes toward antibiotic use, as well as practical factors such as time and financial resources [ 17 ]. The mean attitude score was 7.93 ± 1.98 out of 10, with 73.4% of participants classified as having a ‘Good’ attitude. This indicates that most patients at Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station hold positive and appropriate attitudes toward antibiotic use. Regarding practices, most patients demonstrated appropriate antibiotic-use behaviors, with 82.4% reporting that they ‘always’ purchased antibiotics with a prescription and 79.4% stating that they ‘always’ followed instructions when buying antibiotics for children. Additionally, 60.4% reported that they ‘never’ bought antibiotics without a prescription, although 39.6% admitted to occasionally self-purchasing antibiotics. This rate of non-prescription antibiotic use is higher than that reported in Ethiopia, where only 29.4% were able to obtain antibiotics without a prescription [ 18 ] and it aligns with findings by Chaoping Yang et al., where only 48.4% of nursing students in China purchased antibiotics with a prescription [ 7 ]. In terms of treatment adherence, 80.6% of patients reported ‘always’ taking antibiotics on schedule and completing the full course, indicating generally high adherence—an essential factor for complete bacterial eradication and preventing antimicrobial resistance. This finding corresponds with the high proportion (92.4%) agreeing that ‘antibiotics must be taken exactly as prescribed.’ The mean practice score was 8.10 ± 1.65 (out of 10), with 74.2% classified as ‘Good,’ 18.0% as ‘Average,’ and 7.8% as ‘Poor.’ These results are higher than those reported in Bangladesh (2023), where only 50.61% of respondents demonstrated correct practices in self-medication with antibiotics [ 19 ] and also exceed findings from Ethiopia, where approximately 55% exhibited poor practices [ 18 ]. The study identified that age, place of residence, educational attainment, occupation, income, and health insurance status were significantly associated with KAP regarding antibiotic use (p < 0.05). Evidence from Bangladesh and several African countries showed lower KAP levels among populations with low education/income and those living in vulnerable communities [ 19 ], [ 20 ]. Studies conducted in Malaysia and Uganda further confirmed the role of demographic variables (age, education, occupation, and residence) as key determinants of KAP and antibiotic-use behaviors [ 21 ], [ 22 ]. Research from Ethiopia highlighted that self-medication and poor practices were strongly associated with lower income, limited education, and restricted access to healthcare services [ 23 ]. Among younger populations, Chinese studies reported suboptimal attitudes/practices, often influenced by unregulated information sources, whereas medical students demonstrated higher KAP levels than those from other disciplines [ 7 ]. This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design with a large sample size (500 participants), using a systematically developed and reliability-tested questionnaire (Cronbach’s Alpha > 0.7), which helped ensure the accuracy and consistency of the data. However, the study still has some limitations, such as being conducted at only one health station, which limits its representativeness for the entire area, and relying on self-reported data, which may be biased due to participants responding in a socially desirable manner. Based on these findings, risk-stratified interventions are recommended: targeted digital communication for individuals aged 18–29 and urban residents; simple, visually oriented materials for populations with low educational attainment; workplace and pharmacy-based counseling for specific occupational groups; and leveraging health insurance channels to expand access, with the ultimate goal of improving adherence and reducing antibiotic misuse. 5. Conclusion Most patients demonstrated positive knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use; however, strengthened health education and communication activities are still needed to help reduce antibiotic resistance. Abbreviations AMR Antimicrobial resistance KAP Knowledge, attitudes, practices Declarations Acknowledgements We would like to offer our heartfelt gratitude to all study participants, the Board of Directors, and all medical staffs at the Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station Binh Duong Province, Vietnam. Their support and cooperation in granting us permission to conduct data collection at the health station played a pivotal role in the successful completion of this research. Authors’ contribution THHN, NMKT and TTTN conceptualized the manuscript. THHN wrote the original draft. THHN and TTTN supervised the process. NMKT and TTTN reviewed and edited the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript. Funding This research did not receive any external funding. Availability of data The datasets generated by or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author, Thi Thu Thuy Nguyen ( [email protected] ), upon reasonable request. Conflict of interest The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare for this study. Clinical trial number Not applicable. Ethics approval and consent to participate Ethical approval for this study was granted by the Institutional Review Board of Hong Bang International University (Approval No. 378/QĐ-HIU, dated 11 April 2024). All study procedures adhered to institutional and national guidelines for research involving human subjects. Confidentiality of participant information was ensured at every stage of the research. All study participants were fully informed about the study objectives, content, and procedures, and signed a written informed consent form before the interviews were conducted. 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Ndagire R, et al. Knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance among urban slum dwellers in Uganda. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control. 2025;14(1):12. Ayenew W, et al. Prevalence and predictors of self-medication with antibiotics in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control. 2024;13(1):61. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Supplementary Files AdditionalFile1.docx Additional File 1 File format: .docx Title of data: Figure 3. Practices in Antibiotic Use. Description of data: These figures present the antibiotic use practices of patients at Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station, Tan Uyen City, Binh Duong Province, Vietnam from April to October 2024. 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Application Research Institute","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Nguyen","middleName":"Mai Khanh","lastName":"Tran","suffix":""},{"id":575088937,"identity":"9e34bde6-e917-492f-bde7-4c1761ec2440","order_by":2,"name":"Thi Thu Thuy Nguyen","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAApklEQVRIiWNgGAWjYDACCQjFwy/B2ECcDh6wlgQDGckZpGqxMbhBrLvspXvMpAt//OExvt3cJsHYdocIW2TOmEnPSDDgMbtzEKTlGTEOyzGT5gFpuZHYJsFw5jAJWoxnkKzFQAKkpYIYLTfSiq150ox5JG4kNlskEKOFfUbyxts8NnL2/DPSH974YECEFiBgkYAzE4jSwMDA/IFIhaNgFIyCUTBSAQCcQDAG4Y3p9AAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","orcid":"","institution":"Hong Bang International University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Thi","middleName":"Thu Thuy","lastName":"Nguyen","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-12-08 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08:43:57","extension":"html","order_by":11,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":95119,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"earlyproof.html","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8304400/v1/f14c8462c02121d14ed190ad.html"},{"id":100561345,"identity":"476ae34a-6b32-4776-96d2-a308c35517b0","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-19 08:43:59","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":50530,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eKnowledge of Antibiotic Use\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eNote: * indicates a correct statement.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8304400/v1/b572c419319b81c65c0d8a75.png"},{"id":100561194,"identity":"40dc702c-fc07-40e6-a3e1-aeb730ef54fb","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-19 08:43:58","extension":"png","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":44309,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eAttitudes Toward Antibiotic Use\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote: * indicates a correct statement.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage2.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8304400/v1/e13e9d9810d9302f4f498abf.png"},{"id":105040745,"identity":"592b6833-33e5-46f6-86e5-6d0d50a74477","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-03-20 07:51:02","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1165967,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8304400/v1/52cb86a7-a1c9-4251-8c86-f2e629c5a0bd.pdf"},{"id":100561090,"identity":"52aef4dd-30c5-4475-b0ff-a6231f6b2623","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-19 08:43:56","extension":"docx","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":138333,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional File 1\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- File format: .docx\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Title of data: Figure 3. Practices in Antibiotic Use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Description of data: These figures present the antibiotic use practices of patients at Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station, Tan Uyen City, Binh Duong Province, Vietnam from April to October 2024.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"AdditionalFile1.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8304400/v1/ab13dcd43e10d3ad9c65434e.docx"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Antibiotic Use and Associated Factors among Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Vietnam","fulltext":[{"header":"1. Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health challenge that threatens the effectiveness of modern medicine. Irrational antibiotic use \u0026mdash; such as self-medication, over-the-counter purchases, and premature discontinuation \u0026mdash; remains a key driver of AMR [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e], [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e]. Beyond clinical consequences, this behavior increases treatment costs and prolongs hospital stays, creating a significant socioeconomic burden.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudies from low- and middle-income countries have consistently shown that gaps in patient knowledge, misconceptions about antibiotic indications, and poor adherence contribute to inappropriate use [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e], [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e]. While awareness of antibiotics is often high, many individuals continue to expect antibiotics for viral infections or discontinue treatment early, indicating a persistent gap between knowledge and practice [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e], [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e], [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e]. These findings highlight that education alone may not be sufficient; behavioral and contextual factors must also be addressed to promote responsible antibiotic use.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eVietnam faces a similar challenge, with antibiotic still relatively easy to access and AMR rates rising steadily, while studies assessing knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP) related to antibiotic use in the community remain relatively limited [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e]. In this context, conducting a study to evaluate the current situation of antibiotic use in Thanh Phuoc commune is not only essential but also highly practical, providing the scientific evidence needed to guide local antimicrobial resistance control strategies. Therefore, the study titled \u0026ldquo;Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Antibiotic Use and Associated Factors among Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Vietnam\u0026rdquo; was conducted.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. Methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.1. Design and setting of the study\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA prospective, cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among patients attending the Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station, Tan Uyen City, Binh Duong Province, Vietnam, from April to October 2024. Data were collected using structured KAP questionnaires designed to assess patients\u0026rsquo; knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.2. Sample size and sampling type\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eSample size\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe sample size was determined using the formula for estimating a single population proportion:\u003cdiv id=\"Equa\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e\u003cdiv format=\"TEX\" class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equa\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\n$$\\:n=\\frac{{z}^{2}\\times\\:p\\times\\:\\left(1-p\\right)}{{e}^{2}}$$\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWhere:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003en\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;required sample size; z\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;standard normal value corresponding to the selected confidence level (z\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1.96 for 95% confidence); e\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;margin of error (set at 5%), p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;estimated prevalence (p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.736, based on the proportion of patients who correctly stated that antibiotics kill bacteria [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e])\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe minimum sample size required was 299.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eSampling Method\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eA simple random sampling technique was applied. The total sample was proportionally distributed across months to ensure a similar number of participants per month. Questionnaires were sequentially numbered from 01 until the required sample size was reached.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.3. Inclusion criteria and Exclusion criteria\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eInclusion criteria and exclusion criteria are presented in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInclusion criteria and exclusion criteria\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInclusion criteria\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExclusion criteria\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e- Patients aged\u0026thinsp;\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;18 years, preferably those with knowledge of or prior use of antibiotics\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e- Patients who had ability to communicate, comprehend, read, and respond independently\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e- Patients willing to participate and provide informed consent\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e- Patients who complete the entire questionnaire\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e- Patients unwilling to participate or provide personal data\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e- Foreign nationals\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e- Patients unable to complete the questionnaire\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.4. Study Variables\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e- Demographic characteristics including gender, age group, place of residence, education level, occupation, income, and health insurance participation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- KAP variables including knowledge about antibiotics, attitudes towards antibiotic use, practices, reasons for specific practices, and categorical classification (good/average/poor) [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- Correlation testing between KAP scores and the independent variables (gender, age group, place of residence, education level, occupation, income, and health insurance participation) were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis tests.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.5. Statistical analysis\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eData collection\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eData were collected using paper-based questionnaires that were directly distributed to patients. Participants were instructed on how to complete the forms to ensure independence, anonymity, and confidentiality. The questionnaire assessing KAP regarding antibiotic use was referenced from the study by Ngo Thao Nguyen and Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy (2017) [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e] and modified to fit the context of the Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eError control\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eDouble data entry and cross-checking were performed to minimize errors. Participants were given clear instructions before completing the survey.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eStatistical analysis\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eData were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 16.63.1 and SPSS version 22.0. Results were presented in tables and figures. Statistical significance was assessed at a 95% confidence level. Associated factors including relationships between demographics and KAP were tested using appropriate statistical methods and hypothesis testing (H₀ and H₁).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eScoring system\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowledge score: 11 questions on antibiotic use, resistance, and side effects (1 point per correct response). Scores were converted to a 10-point scale:\u003cdiv id=\"Equb\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e\u003cdiv format=\"TEX\" class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equb\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\n$$\\:\\text{K}\\text{n}\\text{o}\\text{w}\\text{l}\\text{e}\\text{d}\\text{g}\\text{e}\\:\\text{s}\\text{c}\\text{o}\\text{r}\\text{e}\\:\\left(10-\\text{p}\\text{o}\\text{i}\\text{n}\\text{t}\\:\\text{s}\\text{c}\\text{a}\\text{l}\\text{e}\\right)=\\frac{\\text{R}\\text{a}\\text{w}\\:\\text{s}\\text{c}\\text{o}\\text{r}\\text{e}}{11}\\text{x}\\:10$$\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitude score: 11 questions on purchasing and using antibiotics (same scoring and conversion as knowledge).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePractice score: 14 items assessing purchase, use, and storage behaviors. For appropriate behaviors, responses were scored 4 (\u0026ldquo;always\u0026rdquo;) to 0 (\u0026ldquo;never\u0026rdquo;); for inappropriate behaviors, scoring was reversed. Maximum total\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;56 points, converted to a 10-point scale:\u003cdiv id=\"Equc\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e\u003cdiv format=\"TEX\" class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equc\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\n$$\\:\\text{P}\\text{r}\\text{a}\\text{c}\\text{t}\\text{i}\\text{c}\\text{e}\\:\\text{s}\\text{c}\\text{o}\\text{r}\\text{e}\\:\\left(10-\\text{p}\\text{o}\\text{i}\\text{n}\\text{t}\\:\\text{s}\\text{c}\\text{a}\\text{l}\\text{e}\\right)=\\frac{\\text{R}\\text{a}\\text{w}\\:\\text{s}\\text{c}\\text{o}\\text{r}\\text{e}}{56}\\text{x}\\:10$$\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKAP scores were classified as poor (\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;5), average (5\u0026ndash;7), and good (8\u0026ndash;10).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"3. Results","content":"\u003cp\u003eA total of 500 valid questionnaires from patients using antibiotics at Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station were analyzed. Statistical results are presented in tables and figures.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1. Proportion and level of knowledge, attitudes, practices regarding antibiotic use\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eCharacteristics of the study sample\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDemographic characteristics of the study population\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCharacteristics\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrequency\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePercentage (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGender\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e180\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e36.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e320\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e64.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAge group\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18\u0026ndash;29\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e129\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30\u0026ndash;49\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e208\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e41.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlace of residence\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUrban\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e104\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRural\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e396\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e79.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eEducation level\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrimary/secondary school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e360\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e72.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCollege/Vocational\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e31\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUniversity/Postgraduate\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e88\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e17.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOccupation\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudent\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e65\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBusiness/Trade\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e74\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOffice staff\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e47\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eManual labor\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e238\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e47.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOthers\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e76\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMonthly income (VND)\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo income\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e57\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;5 million\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;10 million\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e347\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e69.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;10 million\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e75\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHealth insurance\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e492\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e98.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAccording to Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, the study recorded a female-to-male ratio of 1.78:1, with the majority of participants aged 30\u0026ndash;49 years (41.6%). Most respondents lived in rural areas (79.2%) compared to urban areas (20.8%). High school was the most common education level (72.0%). The majority reported a monthly income between 5 and 10\u0026nbsp;million VND (69.4%). Nearly all participants were covered by health insurance (98.4%), while only 1.6% reported having no health insurance.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eAssessment of knowledge on antibiotic use\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eNote\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cem\u003e* indicates a correct statement.\u003c/em\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs shown in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, most participants correctly recognized that antibiotics kill bacteria (93.8%), yet 21.4% mistakenly believed they kill viruses, 17% associated them with flu treatment, and 16.6% thought they relieve pain. Regarding antibiotic resistance, 95% defined it correctly and 94.4% knew it can make infections difficult or impossible to treat. However, 6% did not agree or were unaware that unnecessary use contributes to resistance, and 7.2% underestimated the impact of incomplete treatment courses. Knowledge of adverse effects was relatively high: 75.2% disagreed that antibiotics are completely safe, and over 90% were aware of risks such as diarrhea (93.0%), allergic reactions, and even death (91.2%).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eAssessment of attitudes toward antibiotic use\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eNote\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cem\u003e* indicates a correct statement.\u003c/em\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAccording to Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, about 22.8% of respondents believed that the price of antibiotics determines their treatment effectiveness, and 22.4% thought imported antibiotics are always superior to domestic ones despite having the same active ingredients. Misconceptions about treating influenza were also noted, with 22.4% believing antibiotics hasten symptom relief and 21.2% believing they prevent cold complications. Attitudes toward appropriate purchasing and use were generally favorable, with 97.8% agreeing that prescriptions are required for adult antibiotic purchases and 95.2% for children. Furthermore, 96.0% agreed they should report any antibiotic allergies, and 92.4% believed antibiotics should be taken as directed. However, 21.2% still thought antibiotics should be discontinued once symptoms improve, and 23.6% incorrectly believed that strong antibiotics should be used from the outset.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eAssessment of practices regarding antibiotic use\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAssessment of practices regarding antibiotic use is shown in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e. [Figure \u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e was sent as Additional File 1 and should be here]\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe majority reported always purchasing antibiotics with a doctor\u0026rsquo;s prescription for themselves (82.4%) and for children (79.4%). Most participants never purchased antibiotics based on others\u0026rsquo; advice (61.6%), old prescriptions (61.2%), or personal experience (63.6%). A total of 64% never purchased antibiotics of unknown origin, and 62.6% never requested a higher dose when symptoms did not improve. Only 3.4% reported always buying antibiotics without a prescription, while 60.4% stated they never did so. The main reason for buying antibiotics without prescription was to save time (21.0%), while 85.0% of parents reported buying unprescribed antibiotics for children due to their sensitivity to medication. Regarding proper use and storage, 80.6% always adhered to treatment duration and dosage, 79.8% regularly checked expiration dates, and 80.0% stored antibiotics away from sunlight. However, some inappropriate practices were still observed: 2.6% always took antibiotics with tea or juice, 5.2% frequently stopped when symptoms improved, and 4.4% often reused leftover antibiotics. Among those not completing the full course, the most common reason was forgetting the dosing schedule (81.0%), followed by adverse effects (77.6%) and fear of taking antibiotics (76.2%). The lowest proportion (61.6%) stopped early because they felt recovered.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eKnowledge, attitude, and practice scores on antibiotic use\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eKAP scores on antibiotic use are presented in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKAP scores on antibiotic use\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVariable\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;SD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMedian (IQR)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"3\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCategory\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePoor\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003en (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAverage\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003en (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGood\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003en (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowledge\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.66\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e10.00\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(6.36-10.00)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e36 (7.2%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e107 (21.4%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e357 (71.4%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitude\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.93\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.98\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.09\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(7.27\u0026ndash;9.09)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e102 (20.4%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e31 (6.2%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e367 (73.4%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePractice\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\"\u0026plusmn;\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.10\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.65\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.23\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e(7.50\u0026ndash;9.23)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e39 (7.8%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e90 (18.0%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e371 (74.2%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003ctfoot\u003e \u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"6\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eNote: SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;standard deviation; IQR\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;interquartile range.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tfoot\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAccording to Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, the mean knowledge score was 8.66\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.14 (median 10.00), with 71.4% of participants classified as having good knowledge and only 7.2% as poor. The mean attitude score was 7.93\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.98 (median 9.09); 73.4% demonstrated good attitudes, with a left-skewed distribution indicating overall positive attitudes toward antibiotic use. The mean practice score was 8.10\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.65 (median 9.23); 74.2% were classified as having good practices, nearly three times higher than the combined proportion of the poor and average groups. Overall, the findings suggest that the majority of respondents demonstrated good KAP regarding antibiotic use.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2. Association between demographic factors with knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding antibiotic use\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study employed non-parametric tests (Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis) to analyze the factors influencing KAP related to antibiotic use.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAssociation between demographic characteristics and KAP scores related to antibiotic use\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"8\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c4\" namest=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowledge\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAttitudes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c8\" namest=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePractice\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c2\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;SD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ep\u003csup\u003e#\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;SD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ep\u003csup\u003e#\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMean\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;SD\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ep\u003csup\u003e#\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGender\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMale (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;180)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.58\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.07\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.31\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.75\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.05\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.68\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.93\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFemale (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;320)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.71\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.19\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.04\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.9\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.13\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.63\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAge group\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18\u0026ndash;29 (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;129)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.67\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.44\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.89\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.34\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.05\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.01\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e30\u0026ndash;49 (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;208)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.09\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.77\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.18\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.76\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.38\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.45\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026ge;\u0026thinsp;50 (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;163)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.90\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.10\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.45\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.59\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.56\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlace of residence\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUrban (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;104)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.25\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.03\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.30\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.78\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.60\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.28\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eRural (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;396)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.29\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.68\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.63\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.34\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.75\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;0.97\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eEducation level\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePrimary/secondary school (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.24\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.77\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.02\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.74\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.71\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eHigh school (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;360)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.14\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.78\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.47\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.55\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.58\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.23\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCollege/Vocational (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;31)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.71\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.08\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.8\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.06\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.98\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.79\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUniversity/Postgraduate (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;88)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.49\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.22\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.47\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.22\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.75\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.93\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOccupation\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudent (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;65)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.8\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.61\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.2\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.31\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.54\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.90\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBusiness/Trade (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;74)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.16\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.48\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.51\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.25\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.74\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.94\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOffice staff (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;47)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.17\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.47\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.34\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.40\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.54\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eManual labor (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;238)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.46\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.36\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.65\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.3\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.76\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;0.91\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOthers (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;76)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.9\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.04\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.33\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.72\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.50\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.31\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMonthly income (VND)\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo income (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;57)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.89\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.83\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.44\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.34\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.75\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.94\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\" morerows=\"3\" rowspan=\"4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;5\u0026nbsp;million (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.63\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.33\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.37\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.84\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.65\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.63\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;10\u0026nbsp;million (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;347)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.35\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.48\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.62\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.36\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.74\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;0.94\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;10\u0026nbsp;million (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;75)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.66\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.22\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.63\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.28\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.85\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.00\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHealth insurance\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;492)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.73\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.06\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.98\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.95\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.14\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.62\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c8\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNo (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;8)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.32\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.65\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.0\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;0.84\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.41\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.01\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAccording to Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, the study identified that factors associated with KAP scores regarding antibiotic use included age group, place of residence, educational level, occupation, income, and health insurance participation (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4. Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study analyzed 500 valid questionnaires from patients attending Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station. The findings revealed a higher proportion of females (64.0%), with the majority aged 30\u0026ndash;49 years (41.6%) and residing in rural areas (79.2%). The mean knowledge score regarding antibiotic use was 8.66\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.14, with 71.4% classified as having \u0026lsquo;good\u0026rsquo; knowledge; the mean attitude score was 7.93\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.98, with 73.4% rated as \u0026lsquo;good\u0026rsquo; and 68.8% disagreeing with self-purchasing antibiotics; and the mean practice score was 8.10\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.65, with 74.2% demonstrating \u0026lsquo;good\u0026rsquo; practices. Most respondents consistently purchased antibiotics with a physician\u0026rsquo;s prescription (82.4%), adhered to prescribed duration and dosage (80.6%), and stored antibiotics properly (80.0%). Nevertheless, some inappropriate behaviors persisted, including discontinuation of treatment upon symptom and reuse of leftover antibiotics (4.4%). Statistical analysis indicated that KAP scores were significantly associated with age group, place of residence, educational level, occupation, income, and health insurance coverage (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study found that 93.8% of respondents correctly understood that antibiotics kill bacteria; however, 21.4% still mistakenly believed that antibiotics can kill viruses. These findings are consistent with a study conducted in Bangladesh, which reported that approximately 80.49% of participants correctly recognized the antibacterial of antibiotics, yet 90.7% believed that antibiotics were effective against viruses [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]. This study also documented that 94% of participants agreed that unnecessary antibiotic use and 92.8% agreed that failure to complete the prescribed treatment course are major contributors to antimicrobial resistance. These results highlight the need to maintain and expand community-based educational interventions on appropriate antibiotic use\u0026mdash;which have demonstrated effectiveness [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e], though their impact varies across settings [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e] and can be optimized by prioritizing widely accessed media channels such as television and trusted sources like healthcare professionals [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e]. Regarding knowledge of antibiotic side effects, most respondents recognized serious reactions such as life-threatening allergies (91.2%) and diarrhea (93.0%); however, 20.0% still believed that antibiotics are \u0026ldquo;safe and have no serious side effects,\u0026rdquo; a concerning misconception that aligns with previous research indicating that the public often underestimates the risks associated with antibiotic use [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e]. The mean knowledge score on antibiotic use in this study was 8.66\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.14 (on a 10-point scale), considerably higher than the findings from a study of 997 Vietnamese adults, which reported a mean score of 14.290\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;5.930 on a 30-point scale (equivalent to approximately 4.76/10) [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e]. This further underscores the urgent need for educational and health communication programs aimed at improving public understanding of rational antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance. In terms of knowledge classification, 71.4% of participants demonstrated \u0026ldquo;Good\u0026rdquo; knowledge (8\u0026ndash;10 points), which is substantially higher than the 43.92% reported in a recent meta-analysis [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e] and also exceeds the 59.1% of non-medical university students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia who had adequate knowledge of antibiotics [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBeyond knowledge, patients\u0026rsquo; attitudes also significantly influence their antibiotic use behaviors. Most participants demonstrated appropriate attitudes, with 78.8% disagreeing that \u0026lsquo;antibiotics prevent colds from becoming severe\u0026rsquo; and 77.6% rejecting the belief that \u0026lsquo;antibiotics help relieve cold symptoms quickly,\u0026rsquo; reflecting a correct understanding of the viral nature of the common cold. However, 21.2% and 22.4%, respectively, continued to hold these misconceptions, indicating a potential risk of inappropriate antibiotic use. These misunderstandings are consistent with findings from Marion E. Davis et al. in the United States, where many patients believed that antibiotics \u0026lsquo;provide very rapid symptom relief\u0026rsquo; [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e]. Such perceptions are influenced by knowledge, previous experience with infection and treatment, attitudes toward antibiotic use, as well as practical factors such as time and financial resources [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e]. The mean attitude score was 7.93\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.98 out of 10, with 73.4% of participants classified as having a \u0026lsquo;Good\u0026rsquo; attitude. This indicates that most patients at Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station hold positive and appropriate attitudes toward antibiotic use.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eRegarding practices, most patients demonstrated appropriate antibiotic-use behaviors, with 82.4% reporting that they \u0026lsquo;always\u0026rsquo; purchased antibiotics with a prescription and 79.4% stating that they \u0026lsquo;always\u0026rsquo; followed instructions when buying antibiotics for children. Additionally, 60.4% reported that they \u0026lsquo;never\u0026rsquo; bought antibiotics without a prescription, although 39.6% admitted to occasionally self-purchasing antibiotics. This rate of non-prescription antibiotic use is higher than that reported in Ethiopia, where only 29.4% were able to obtain antibiotics without a prescription [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e] and it aligns with findings by Chaoping Yang et al., where only 48.4% of nursing students in China purchased antibiotics with a prescription [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e]. In terms of treatment adherence, 80.6% of patients reported \u0026lsquo;always\u0026rsquo; taking antibiotics on schedule and completing the full course, indicating generally high adherence\u0026mdash;an essential factor for complete bacterial eradication and preventing antimicrobial resistance. This finding corresponds with the high proportion (92.4%) agreeing that \u0026lsquo;antibiotics must be taken exactly as prescribed.\u0026rsquo; The mean practice score was 8.10\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.65 (out of 10), with 74.2% classified as \u0026lsquo;Good,\u0026rsquo; 18.0% as \u0026lsquo;Average,\u0026rsquo; and 7.8% as \u0026lsquo;Poor.\u0026rsquo; These results are higher than those reported in Bangladesh (2023), where only 50.61% of respondents demonstrated correct practices in self-medication with antibiotics [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e] and also exceed findings from Ethiopia, where approximately 55% exhibited poor practices [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe study identified that age, place of residence, educational attainment, occupation, income, and health insurance status were significantly associated with KAP regarding antibiotic use (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05). Evidence from Bangladesh and several African countries showed lower KAP levels among populations with low education/income and those living in vulnerable communities [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e], [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e]. Studies conducted in Malaysia and Uganda further confirmed the role of demographic variables (age, education, occupation, and residence) as key determinants of KAP and antibiotic-use behaviors [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e], [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e]. Research from Ethiopia highlighted that self-medication and poor practices were strongly associated with lower income, limited education, and restricted access to healthcare services [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e]. Among younger populations, Chinese studies reported suboptimal attitudes/practices, often influenced by unregulated information sources, whereas medical students demonstrated higher KAP levels than those from other disciplines [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design with a large sample size (500 participants), using a systematically developed and reliability-tested questionnaire (Cronbach\u0026rsquo;s Alpha\u0026thinsp;\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;0.7), which helped ensure the accuracy and consistency of the data. However, the study still has some limitations, such as being conducted at only one health station, which limits its representativeness for the entire area, and relying on self-reported data, which may be biased due to participants responding in a socially desirable manner. Based on these findings, risk-stratified interventions are recommended: targeted digital communication for individuals aged 18\u0026ndash;29 and urban residents; simple, visually oriented materials for populations with low educational attainment; workplace and pharmacy-based counseling for specific occupational groups; and leveraging health insurance channels to expand access, with the ultimate goal of improving adherence and reducing antibiotic misuse.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"5. Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eMost patients demonstrated positive knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use; however, strengthened health education and communication activities are still needed to help reduce antibiotic resistance.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Abbreviations","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionList\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003eAMR\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAntimicrobial resistance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003eKAP\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eKnowledge, attitudes, practices\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgements\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe would like to offer our heartfelt gratitude to all study participants, the Board of Directors, and all medical staffs at the Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station\u0026nbsp;Binh Duong Province, Vietnam. Their support and cooperation in granting us permission to conduct data collection at the health station played a pivotal role in the successful completion of this research.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthors\u0026rsquo; contribution\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTHHN, NMKT and TTTN conceptualized the manuscript. THHN wrote the original draft. THHN and TTTN supervised the process. NMKT and TTTN reviewed and edited the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis research did not receive any external funding.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAvailability of data\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe datasets generated by or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author, Thi Thu Thuy Nguyen ([email protected]), upon reasonable request.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConflict of interest\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors have no conflicts of interest to declare for this study.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClinical trial number\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEthical approval for this study was granted by the Institutional Review Board of Hong Bang International University (Approval No. 378/QĐ-HIU, dated 11 April 2024). All study procedures adhered to institutional and national guidelines for research involving human subjects. Confidentiality of participant information was ensured at every stage of the research. All study participants were fully informed about the study objectives, content, and procedures, and signed a written informed consent form before the interviews were conducted. Participation was entirely voluntary, and participants had the right to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting their treatment-related rights.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWorld Health Organization. (2016, 26 September, 2025). \u003cem\u003eGlobal action plan on antimicrobial resistance\u003c/em\u003e. Available: \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241509763\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241509763\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDuan L, Liu C, Wang D. The general population\u0026rsquo;s inappropriate behaviors and misunderstanding of antibiotic use in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis, \u003cem\u003eAntibiotics\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 10, no. 5, p. 497, 2021.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOmran S, Kheyar M, Alfatih N, Abdelatti A, Alamin MF, Hamadalneel YB. Public knowledge attitudes and practices toward antibiotic use among the adult Sudanese community: A cross-sectional descriptive study. J Public Health Res. 2025;14(3):22799036251365577.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGeta K, Kibret M. Knowledge, attitudes and practices of patients on antibiotic resistance and use in Public Hospitals of Amhara Regional State, Northwestern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. Infect Drug Resist, pp. 193\u0026ndash;209, 2022.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRaihan MA, et al. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use in Bangladesh: Findings from a cross-sectional study. PLoS ONE. 2024;19(2):e0297653.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlkhuraisi LS et al. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Antibiotic Resistance Among General Population in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study, \u003cem\u003eCureus\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 15, no. 12, 2023.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYang C et al. Knowledge, attitude, and practice about antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance among nursing students in China: a cross sectional study. Infect Drug Resist, pp. 1085\u0026ndash;98, 2024.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTorumkuney D et al. Country data on AMR in Vietnam in the context of community-acquired respiratory tract infections: links between antibiotic susceptibility, local and international antibiotic prescribing guidelines, access to medicines and clinical outcome, (in eng), \u003cem\u003eJ Antimicrob Chemother\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 77, no. Suppl_1, pp. i26-i34, Sep 6 2022.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThuy v\u0026agrave; NTT, Nguyen NT. Khảo s\u0026aacute;t kiến thức, th\u0026aacute;i độ, h\u0026agrave;nh vi sử dụng kh\u0026aacute;ng sinh của kh\u0026aacute;ch h\u0026agrave;ng nh\u0026agrave; thuốc tại c\u0026aacute;c quận nội th\u0026agrave;nh th\u0026agrave;nh phố Hồ Ch\u0026iacute; Minh, \u003cem\u003eTạp ch\u0026iacute; Dược học\u003c/em\u003e, tập 57, tr. 489, 2017.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShen L et al. The effectiveness of an educational intervention on knowledge, attitudes and reported practices on antibiotic use in humans and pigs: A quasi-experimental study in twelve villages in Shandong Province, China, \u003cem\u003eInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 18, no. 4, p. 1940, 2021.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHa TV, Nguyen AMT, Nguyen HST. Public awareness about antibiotic use and resistance among residents in highland areas of Vietnam, \u003cem\u003eBioMed research international\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 2019, no. 1, p. 9398536, 2019.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUlaya G et al. Awareness of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance in a rural district of Ha Nam province, Vietnam: a cross-sectional survey, \u003cem\u003eAntibiotics\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 11, no. 12, p. 1751, 2022.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWoldegeorgis BZ, Kerbo AA, Obsa MS, Mokonnon TM. A systematic review and meta-analysis of antimicrobial resistance knowledge, attitudes, and practices: Current evidence to build a strong national antimicrobial drug resistance narrative in Ethiopia. PLoS ONE. 2023;18(6):e0287042.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDoan DA, Nguyen AD, Le GB, Nguyen TTX, Nguyen PL, Dinh DX. Prevalence and associated factors of antibiotic self-medication and home storage among antibiotic users: a cross-sectional study in Vietnam, \u003cem\u003eBMC Public Health\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 25, no. 1, p. 1940, 2025.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBawazir A, et al. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Towards Antibiotic Use and Resistance Among Non-Medical University Students, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2025;22(6):868.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDavis ME et al. Exploring patient awareness and perceptions of the appropriate use of antibiotics: a mixed-methods study, \u003cem\u003eAntibiotics\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 6, no. 4, p. 23, 2017.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBalea LB, Gulesto RJ, Xu H, Glasdam S. Physicians\u0026rsquo;, pharmacists\u0026rsquo;, and nurses\u0026rsquo; education of patients about antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance in primary care settings: a qualitative systematic literature review. Front Antibiot. 2025;3:1507868.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSitotaw B, Philipos WJTSWJ. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) on Antibiotic Use and Disposal Ways in Sidama Region, Ethiopia: A Community-Based Cross‐Sectional Survey, \u003cem\u003eThe Scientific World Journal\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 2023, no. 1, p. 8774634, 2023.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAzim MR, Ifteakhar KN, Rahman MM, Sakib QN. Public knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotics use and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Bangladesh, \u003cem\u003eHeliyon\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 9, no. 10, 2023.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAtalay YA, Abebe Gelaw K. Prevalence of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antimicrobial resistance in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Microbiol. 2024;15:1345145.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBhatt V et al. Socio-Demographic Factors and Public Knowledge of Antibiotic Resistance, \u003cem\u003eHealthcare\u003c/em\u003e, vol. 11, no. 16, p. 2284, 2023.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNdagire R, et al. Knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance among urban slum dwellers in Uganda. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control. 2025;14(1):12.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAyenew W, et al. Prevalence and predictors of self-medication with antibiotics in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control. 2024;13(1):61.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Antibiotics, knowledge, attitudes, practices","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8304400/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8304400/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003ch2\u003eBackground\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eInfections are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, with antibiotics playing a crucial role in treatment. However, they are also the most commonly misused drug group. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess patients\u0026rsquo; knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use at a medical center in Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMethods\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted prospectively using data obtained from survey questionnaires that met the inclusion criteria and did not violate the exclusion criteria from April to October 2024 at the Thanh Phuoc Commune Health Station, Tan Uyen City, Binh Duong Province, Vietnam.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResults\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eA total of 500 valid responses were analyzed, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.78; the mean knowledge score regarding antibiotic use was 8.66\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.14, with 71.4% classified as having \u0026lsquo;good\u0026rsquo; knowledge; the mean attitude score was 7.93\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.98, with 73.4% rated as \u0026lsquo;good\u0026rsquo; and 68.8% disagreeing with self-purchasing antibiotics; and the mean practice score was 8.10\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.65, with 74.2% demonstrating \u0026lsquo;good\u0026rsquo; practices. Factors associated with knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antibiotic use included age group, place of residence, educational level, occupation, monthly income, and health insurance.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eConclusion\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eMost patients demonstrated positive knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use; however, strengthened health education and communication are still needed to help reduce antibiotic resistance.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Antibiotic Use and Associated Factors among Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Vietnam","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-01-19 08:28:36","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8304400/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"1908eab1-109f-464b-a089-5bdd9be28d81","owner":[],"postedDate":"January 19th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-03-20T07:49:52+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-01-19 08:28:36","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8304400","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8304400","identity":"rs-8304400","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}