Decoding the Gulf's Conversation on Antibiotics and Antimicrobial Resistance

Gulf Public Perspective on Antibiotics and Antimicrobial Resistance Across Five Countries

Conference: 32nd European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID), 2022

European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID)

Read on ResearchGate | View Infographic

Abstract

Background: Social media are unrestricted tools where people and organisations from various demographics share their views and influence others on medical topics among others. Such conversations illustrate patient experiences, attitude, knowledge, emotions along with their level of understanding about topics such as antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In this study, insights from social media pertaining to antibiotics and AMR from 5 Gulf Countries were captured and analysed with an objective to plan long-term strategies to generate awareness. Methods: Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies were used to scan 100M websites to analyse publicly visible conversations about antibiotics and AMR between September 1, 2018 and August 31, 2021 from United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain in English and Arabic languages. Predefined keywords were utilised, and targeted queries were developed using Boolean operators to capture trends and insights. Results: 65,157 mentions (Arabic: 46,727; English: 18,430) were analysed, 21,963 mentions were from the public. Most conversations were reported from UAE and Kuwait. Twitter was the most popular social media platform followed by news and forums.Around 5% public conversations dealt with questions on AMR and stewardship (>1000 posts). Public seems to be aware that antibiotics do not work against viruses (~218 posts). Safety concerns (~342 mentions) related to antimicrobial usage such as weight loss and nephrotoxicity were discussed. There were over 8000 patient mentions about infections including patient experiences of self or a relative/dependent and treatment received. It was observed that people reached out to online communities for treatment funding and some recommended alternate therapies to antibiotics. Emotions such as fear, gratitude, relief or disappointment from extended treatment duration and incorrect medical treatment, such as unnecessary administration of antibiotics were expressed. Popularity of posts on Antibiotics by influencers who are not medical professionals was observed. Conclusions: Social media can positively or negatively impact the perceptions of the Gulf audience about antimicrobials. Information on social media is difficult to control. Hence, it is recommended to monitor the narrations and disseminate correct information by collaborating with influencers and health organisations. Patient support/focus groups should be sought to generate awareness among patients and their families on appropriate antibiotic use.

Why This Study Matters

Have you ever wondered what people are saying online about antibiotics or the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR)? Social media isn’t just a place for memes and trending hashtags—it’s where people share real-life health experiences, ask questions, and sometimes even spread advice. Understanding these conversations is crucial because AMR is a global health threat, and public awareness can make a huge difference in tackling it. This study explored how people in five Gulf countries—UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain—talk about antibiotics online, providing valuable insights into public perceptions and behaviors.

How the Study Was Conducted

The research team used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to comb through 100 million websites, looking for discussions about antibiotics and AMR between September 2018 and August 2021. Both Arabic and English posts were included, ensuring a broad and accurate picture. Researchers focused on social media, news platforms, and online forums, analyzing 65,157 mentions, with about 22,000 coming directly from the public. Twitter emerged as the most popular platform, making it a key hub for health conversations in the region.

What the Study Found

Here’s a snapshot of the most interesting insights:

• Where Conversations Happened: Most posts came from the UAE and Kuwait.

• Public Knowledge: A small portion of posts asked questions about AMR or antibiotic stewardship, but some users knew that antibiotics don’t work against viruses.

• Safety Concerns: People talked about side effects like weight loss or kidney issues.

• Personal Experiences: Thousands of posts shared infections and treatments, sometimes asking for funding or suggesting alternative therapies.

• Emotions Matter: People expressed fear, gratitude, relief, and frustration, especially when treatments were prolonged or unnecessary.

• Influencers Have Impact: Non-medical influencers posting about antibiotics were highly popular, showing both the power and risk of online influence.

Why It Matters for Healthcare

The study shows that social media is a double-edged sword: it can educate but also mislead. Healthcare professionals and organizations can use these insights to:

• Work with Influencers: Trusted voices can help spread accurate information.

• Monitor Online Trends: Understanding public concerns allows for timely guidance and interventions.

• Engage Patient Communities: Online groups are a great way to educate families about safe antibiotic use.

• Target Awareness Campaigns: Focused messaging can correct misconceptions, like antibiotics being ineffective against viruses.

Final Thoughts

Social media reflects what people know, feel, and worry about regarding antibiotics and AMR. It’s a powerful tool for learning, sharing, and raising awareness—but it can also spread misinformation if not carefully managed. By paying attention to these online conversations, healthcare organizations can craft smarter, more effective campaigns, support patients, and help combat antimicrobial resistance in the Gulf region. In short, listening online isn’t just interesting—it could save lives.

Read the full study on ResearchGate or view the Infographics.