The public’s irrational use of antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infections: a cross-sectional study based on the health belief model

A study in Chongqing, China, aimed to understand the reasons behind the public’s irrational use of antibiotics. A questionnaire survey was conducted, measuring the public’s antibiotic use behaviors, knowledge, perceived threat of diseases, perceived value of antibiotic use, self-efficacy, availability, and social influences. The results showed that higher levels of perceived threat of URTIs, perceived benefits of antibiotic use, self-efficacy, antibiotic availability, and social influence were associated with more irrational antibiotic use behavior. To curb irrational use, a systematic approach addressing multiple dimensions of health beliefs is critical. This includes targeted public education campaigns, regulatory measures, clinical guidelines, and community-level interventions. Policymakers should prioritize interventions that address both individual perceptions and systemic drivers.