Society of Diabetic Nephropathy Prevention Journal of Preventive Epidemiology 2476-3934 7 2 2022 07 01 Knowledge, attitude and practice regarding antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance among the rural public in Mangaluru, India e26162 e26162 10.34172/jpe.2022.26162 EN Amit Khelgi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7032-9202 Raghavendra Huchchannavar https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2601-514X Milu Mary Mathew Sathya Anandam https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7099-7035 Journal Article 10.34172/jpe.2022.26162 2021 11 09 2022 02 09 Introduction: India is a leading consumer of antibiotics; rational use of antibiotics is of prime importance. Objectives: The majority of the population in India resides in rural areas; hence this study was conducted to capture their knowledge, attitude and practice regarding antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 130 randomly selected general public of rural Mangaluru. Descriptive analysis and Pearson’s chi-square were employed in data analysis. Results: Adequate knowledge was observed only in 18.5% of the participants. Around 30.8% of participants thought antibiotics killed all germs while 23.8% were of no opinion. Furthermore, 60.8% thought that antibiotics speed up recovery from flu. Only about 23% thought frequent use of antibiotics would make the bacteria stronger and ineffective in the future. A minimal of 16.2% knew that antibiotic resistance is a global problem. About 52.3% preferred to take an antibiotic whenever they had the flu. However, 47% wanted to take it after doctors’ consultation. The study showed that compliance to complete the course was better when a doctor explained the proper use of the prescribed antibiotic. Additionally 31.5% opted for self-medication using the previous prescription and 21.5% took the antibiotics suggested by anyone other than the doctor. Conclusion: The study findings help re-evaluate the current public awareness activity and provide insight into some of the areas required to be focused on and aid the adequate legislative changes for a better outcome.