A recent study conducted by CUNY SPH doctoral student Eslam Abousamra and Distinguished Professor Luisa N. Borrell has revealed significant disparities in antibiotic use among different demographic groups in the United States. The research, published in Preventive Medicine, aimed to investigate whether sociodemographic and health-related factors influenced antibiotic usage, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern globally, leading to millions of deaths each year. Inappropriate use of antibiotics is a major contributing factor to this issue, with many prescriptions being unnecessary or misunderstood. The study analyzed data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (2017–2022) for over 118,000 U.S. adults to determine patterns of antibiotic use.
The findings showed that 14.3% of U.S. adults reported using antibiotics, with certain groups showing higher likelihoods of usage. Adults aged 65 and older, women, and privately insured individuals were more likely to use antibiotics. Higher education levels were also associated with increased antibiotic use.
Interestingly, the study found that Hispanic, Black, and Asian adults used antibiotics less frequently than their white counterparts, even after adjustments. Regionally, antibiotic use was higher in the South and Midwest compared to the Northeast. Chronic bronchitis was strongly linked to higher antibiotic usage.
Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the study revealed that racial/ethnic and regional disparities in antibiotic use remained consistent. However, these disparities were somewhat reduced during and after the pandemic, highlighting the need for targeted strategies to address inequities and enhance antibiotic stewardship.
The researchers emphasized the importance of understanding these patterns to develop interventions that promote responsible antibiotic use across all demographic groups. By addressing disparities in antibiotic use, public health policies can be better informed, leading to improved health outcomes and reduced antimicrobial resistance.
For more information on this study, you can refer to the publication in Preventive Medicine. The research sheds light on the ongoing challenges of antibiotic use disparities and the importance of addressing these issues for public health.
