Assessing the Awareness of Antimicrobial Resistance Among Patients at the Ho Teaching Hospital, Ho Municipality, Volta Region, Ghana

Abstract

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern driven by inappropriate antibiotic use and limited patient awareness. This study assessed awareness of antimicrobial resistance among patients at Ho Teaching Hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 patients using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using STATA version 18. Descriptive statistics summarized variables, while chi-square tests assessed associations between socio-demographic factors and AMR awareness (p < 0.05). Results: Most respondents were young (35.5% aged 18–29 years) and female (55.0%). Overall, 64.0% had heard of AMR. Knowledge was moderate: 73.5% knew antibiotics treat bacterial infections, 69.9% understood AMR, and 71.1% recognized self-medication as a cause. However, only 28.4% correctly identified that antibiotics do not treat viral infections. Overall, 59.2% had good knowledge. Doctors (30.8%) and nurses (23.7%) were the main information sources, with doctors most trusted (42.7%). Knowledge was significantly associated with age, education, occupation, residence, and NHIS status (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Although awareness exists, significant knowledge gaps remain, highlighting the need for strengthened public education and antimicrobial stewardship.