Large-animal farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic usage in dairy and beef fattening farms in Bangladesh’s milk pocket areas

In Bangladesh, the excessive use of antibiotics on cattle farms has led to antibiotic residues in animal products, contributing to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study aimed to assess the large animal farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic usage in dairy and beef fattening farms in Bangladesh’s milk pocket areas. Data was collected through a pre-tested questionnaire, administered via face-to-face interviews and farmed record observations. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the association between farmers’ KAP and demographic variables such as age, education, training, and farm type. The study identified significant gaps in farmers' KAP regarding antibiotic use and AMR. While 98.3% had heard of antibiotics, only 55% understood withdrawal periods, 58.3% recognized antibiotic residues, and 35.8% knew residues could transfer through milk or meat. AMR awareness was low, with 64.2% denying its link to antibiotic dosage and 52.9% unaware of its public health risks. Misconceptions were prevalent, as 65% believed antibiotics were ineffective for most diseases, and an equal proportion stopped treatment once clinical signs subsided. Antibiotic misuse was widespread—68.7% used them without prescriptions, 69.2% ignored dosage guidelines, and 55.4% failed to complete treatment courses. Moreover, only 20% maintained antibiotic records, and 31.1% had received AMR-related training. The findings indicate that young farmers with education up to SSC and training had significantly better knowledge (OR: 11.70, 95% CI: 2.54–54.04). Farmers with education up to HSC were more likely to have a positive attitude (OR: 25.28, 95% CI: 3.67-174.76) and engaged in better farming practices (OR: 24.81, 95% CI: 4.45-138.25). Dairy farmers exhibited significantly lower knowledge (OR: 0.17, 95% CI: 0.03–0.95), attitude (OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.05–9.86), and practice (OR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.07–4.92) compared to beef fattening farmers. In contrast, mixed farming practitioners demonstrated superior knowledge (OR: 14.73, 95% CI: 2.85–76.36), attitude (OR: 29.30, 95% CI: 2.19–39.07), and practice (OR: 8.00, 95% CI: 1.00-64.07). This study highlights critical gaps in farmers' KAP regarding antibiotic use and AMR, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions. Despite high antibiotic awareness, widespread misconceptions and improper practices contribute to AMR risks. Education and training significantly improve KAP, underscoring the need for enhanced farmer education and stricter regulatory measures. Tailored training programs and policies should prioritize high-risk groups, such as dairy farmers, to promote responsible antibiotic use and mitigate AMR threats.