O-78 Knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceptions of the general population in Barbados regarding antimicrobial use in the food supply

Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was administered among adults residing in Barbados using a structured KAPP questionnaire. The instrument captured demographic characteristics and KAPP indicators related to AMU and AMR in food production. Composite scores were calculated for each KAPP domain and categorised as low, moderate, or high. Descriptive statistics summarised response patterns, while chi-square tests and regression analyses assessed associations between demographic characteristics and KAPP outcomes. All analyses were conducted using Stata version 15.

Results: There were 200 fully completed questionnaires included in the analysis. Respondents had a mean age of 45.7 years (SD 12.0). The overall KAPP total score could reach a maximum of 39, but in this sample, scores ranged from 3 to 21 (mean = 11.835, SD = 3.796). Awareness of antibiotics was universal, with 100% of respondents reporting having heard of antibiotics. Notable misconceptions persisted, with >30% of participants believing antibiotics could treat viral or fungal infections. Knowledge scores were significantly lower among younger respondents (p=0.002). Higher educational attainment was associated with higher knowledge scores (p=0.039). Although attitudes towards reducing AMU in food production were generally positive, these did not consistently translate into safer consumer practices. Educational attainment was the strongest predictor of higher KAPP scores (p<0.05) (OR=6.85; 95% CI: 1.98–23.74).

Conclusion: Despite high awareness of antibiotics and AMR, substantial gaps exist in the public’s knowledge and translation of attitudes into safe practices regarding AMU in the Barbadian food supply. Targeted, education-focused interventions particularly for younger and less-educated groups are needed to strengthen AMR prevention and support informed consumer decision-making.