Canada News
Survey reveals antibiotic misuse among British Columbians
FILE: London Drugs pharmacist, Kerry Yan, consults a patient about the use of antibiotics. Education and awareness are key to preventing the misuse and overuse of antibiotics which may be contributing to a rise in resistant bacteria. (Supplied Photo)
Reminder to British Columbians about correct and cautious use of antibiotics ahead of cold and flu season and as part of Canadian Antibiotic Awareness Week (Nov 12- 18)
NOVEMBER 8, 2019, RICHMOND, BC – The escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance is a national public health concern which has jeopardized the effectiveness of some commonly prescribed antibiotics, contributing to the rise of superbugs. While most British Columbians say they have a strong understanding of how antibiotics should be used and the importance of taking them correctly as prescribed, a new poll conducted by Insights West on behalf of London Drugs finds that many admit to using them incorrectly.
One in five (19%) say they have stopped using antibiotics before the prescription was finished, as soon as they stopped experiencing symptoms. A further twelve per cent say they have used leftover antibiotics to treat a new symptom or illness. About one in ten (7%) admit to using antibiotics prescribed to someone else or acquiring antibiotics without a prescription from somewhere other than a pharmacy. Despite this, most British Columbians (91%) are aware that unnecessary antibiotic use and misuse directly contributes to the rise in resistant bacteria.
“The act of taking antibiotics incorrectly goes beyond your own medicine cabinet. It has widespread impact for entire populations of people and for future generations because it compromises our ability to treat infectious diseases and contributes to the rise in rise in resistant bacteria,” says Gianni Del Negro. Pharmacy Manager at London Drugs.
Canadian Antibiotic Awareness Week, which runs November 12 to 18, is a national campaign that aims to put a spotlight on unnecessary antibiotic use that is contributing to a rise in resistant bacteria, making infections much harder, and some impossible to treat. The event coincides with World Antibiotic Awareness Week, led by global champions for the responsible use of antibiotics.
“Particularly as we head into cold and flu season, it’s timely to remind British Columbians that antibiotics aren’t appropriate for all illnesses and that there are both medical risks and public health consequences of taking antibiotics haphazardly,” says Del Negro.
The poll highlighted some concerning misconceptions about the use of antibiotics among some individuals in the province including:
- Three in ten (30%) are not aware that antibiotics are unnecessary for some common bacterial infections.
- More than one in five (22%) are not aware that antibiotics are ineffective for the flu virus.
- Nearly one in five (16%) are not aware that antibiotics are ineffective for the common cold.
- One in ten (12%) are not aware that different antibiotics are prescribed for different infections or illnesses; they are not a “one size fits all” drug.
When it comes to some winter illnesses affecting the nose, throat, ears, throat or lungs, Del Negro says it is important to remember that over-the-counter medicines can often alleviate symptoms without the use of antibiotics.
“Your pharmacist can provide advice on which medications are best suited to manage specific symptoms. They can also advise if they think further medical intervention or a prescription for antibiotics might be necessary,” he says adding that prevention is also key.
“You can reduce your chance of infection with prevention measures such as washing your hands, practicing safe sex, keeping your vaccinations up-to-date and maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” he advises. “If you do get an infection or if you do get sick, do not be tempted to take leftover antibiotics. Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking any antibiotics and return any unused prescriptions to the pharmacy for safe disposal.”
ABOUT THE SURVEY
Results are based on an online study conducted by Insights West from August 22nd to 28th, 2019 among a representative sample of 624 British Columbian adults. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.92 percentage points. Discrepancies between totals are due to rounding.
ABOUT LONDON DRUGS
Founded in 1945, B.C.-based London Drugs has 82 stores in more than 35 major markets throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba including its online store www.LondonDrugs.com. London Drugs offers consumers a range of products from digital cameras and cosmetics to computers and televisions. Renowned for its creative approach to retailing, the company employs more than 7,500 people with pharmacy and health care services being the heart of its business. Committed to innovation and superior customer service, London Drugs has established itself as a reputable and caring company and continues to position itself for future growth and development.
