PHARMACY STUDENTS' KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES ABOUT PROBIOTICS

Abstract

Objective: Probiotics are an important and fast-growing functional food group. Pharmacy students, as pharmacists of the future, need to have sufficient knowledge on this subject. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate pharmacy students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices about probiotics. Material and Method: A cross-sectional survey study was conducted among students of Suleyman Demirel University Faculty of Pharmacy in Türkiye between 9 October and 30 October 2023. The paper-based questionnaires consisted of 23 questions and were administered for approximately 10-15 minutes. Result and Discussion: The questionnaires were answered by 347 (74.7%) students. The mean±SD of the knowledge score was 5.14±1.53. The majority of respondents (79%) correctly identified probiotics. Approximately half of the participants knew the type of bacteria used in probiotic production The mean±SD of the attitude score was 11.13±1.44. Most respondents (91.9%) believed that probiotic consumption was beneficial for health. The mean±SD of the practice score was 3.72±2.77. 45.2% of respondents stated that they had used probiotic supplements before and 31.1% stated that they had sought additional information about probiotics from various sources. 40.6% of the respondents stated that they recommend probiotics to their family/close relatives. This study showed that although the attitudes of pharmacy students were acceptable, they had some knowledge deficiencies and their practices were poor. To increase the knowledge and practices of pharmacy students about probiotics, this subject should be given more space in undergraduate education and relevant scientific events should be organized.