Abstract
BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health concern, closely linked to the excessive and unregulated use of antimicrobials in livestock production systems, particularly in poultry farming. In Bangladesh, where poultry serves as a key source of animal protein, the misuse of antimicrobials contributes to the rapid emergence and spread of AMR, endangering animal, environmental and human health. Poultry farmers play a vital role in mitigating AMR through responsible antimicrobial usage (AMU), underscoring the urgent need for targeted educational interventions and strengthened regulatory frameworks to promote prudent AMU practices. METHODS: This cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of poultry farmers regarding AMU across three districts in Bangladesh: Bogura, Rajshahi and Munshiganj. Data were collected from 294 poultry farmers through face-to-face interviews using a structured, pre-validated questionnaire. KAP was classified using descriptive statistics and the chi-square tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: A majority of farmers (98.64%) reported us antimicrobials; however, only 50.34% obtained veterinary prescriptions. In addition, 73.13% were unaware of authorized prescribers, and 91.16% had no prior knowledge of AMR. Antimicrobials were frequently used during the brooding phase (61.90%) and as growth promoters (39.46%). A significant proportion of farmers (65.31%) believed antimicrobials could be used without veterinary advice, and 80.61% held misconceptions about their efficacy against viral infections. Furthermore, about 48.98% purchased these antimicrobials from local pharmacies without prior consultation with a veterinarian. The most commonly used antimicrobials were ciprofloxacin (58.84%), levofloxacin (43.20%), colistin (39.12%), amoxicillin (36.39%), doxycycline (36.39%) and tylosin (30.95%). CONCLUSIONS: The widespread lack of knowledge and inappropriate attitudes toward AMU among poultry farmers is a significant driver of AMR. Addressing this issue necessitates comprehensive educational programs to enhance awareness, stricter enforcement of veterinary regulations to ensure responsible antimicrobial use and the establishment of robust AMU surveillance systems for continuous monitoring and assessment.