Effect of a Health Education Program on Teachers' Antibiotic Use Practices

Bacterial antibiotic resistance represents a major global health challenge driven largely by inappropriate antibiotic use, including self-medication, incomplete treatment courses, and misuse for non-bacterial illnesses. Educational interventions targeting key community members have been recognized as an effective strategy for promoting responsible antibiotic use. Teachers, as trusted role models, have the potential to influence health behaviors among students, families, and the broader community.

This study was designed as a pragmatic, individually randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of a health education program on teachers' antibiotic use practices among high school teachers in the Koya District, Erbil City, Iraq. Ten high schools were selected using a convenience sampling approach to ensure geographic representation across the district. Eligible teachers who consented to participate were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either an intervention group or a control group using a lottery-based randomization method.

The intervention consisted of a structured health education program focusing on appropriate antibiotic use, completion of prescribed treatment courses, avoidance of self-medication, and prevention of antibiotic resistance. The control group did not receive the educational program during the study period. Teachers' practices related to antibiotic use were assessed at baseline and after completion of the intervention using a validated questionnaire.

The primary outcome of the study was the change in antibiotic use practice scores from pre-intervention to post-intervention. Secondary outcomes included changes in knowledge and attitudes related to antibiotic use and resistance. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare outcomes between the intervention and control groups and to identify predictors of appropriate antibiotic use practices.

This trial was registered retrospectively due to delayed awareness of trial registration requirements. Participant recruitment, intervention delivery, and data collection were completed prior to registration. The authors confirm that the study protocol, outcome measures, and statistical analysis plan were not modified after data collection or analysis.

Inclusion criteria

• High school teachers currently employed in Koya District, Erbil City, Iraq.
• Available during the study period.
• Willing to participate in the health education program and complete the study questionnaires.
• Provided written informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Teachers who previously participated in similar training programs related to antibiotic use or resistance.
• Teachers involved in the pilot study.
• Teachers who were absent during data collection periods.
• Teachers who declined participation or did not complete the pre- or post-intervention assessments.