The Role of Structural Factors in Antibiotic Use Among European Union Citizens: A Multilevel Analysis

Authors

  • Yvonnes Chen University of Kansas
  • Hong Tien Vu University of Kansas

Keywords:

antibiotic resistance, multilevel analyses, health literacy, health information seeking, Eurobarometer survey

Abstract

Using the 2016 European Commission’s Eurobarometer survey, this study analyzed how a multitude of factors are associated with identification and intention of following proper antibiotic treatment. Multilevel analyses showed that knowledge and information from medical professionals and mass media (individual-level predictors), and advanced access to education (a structural-level factor) are associated with identification. For intention, structural factors (Access to Information & Communications, Health & Wellness, Nutrition & Basic Medical Care) contributed significant variances to the model, in addition to the individual-level effects (sources and trust in medical professionals and mass media). Results demonstrate a need to consider these structural-level influences to shed light on the process though which antibiotic resistance preventions and interventions might impact individuals’ health literacy and behavioral outcomes.

Author Biographies

Yvonnes Chen, University of Kansas

Yvonnes Chen is an associate professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Kansas. She is one of the five 2017 Outstanding Educators awarded by the KU Torch Chapter of the Mortar Board (a senior honor society). She is also a 2017-2018 Keeler Intra-University Professorship recipient and was a Visiting Professor Program fellows awarded from the Advertising Educational Foundation in New York. Her research — which has received funding from government agencies — centers on designing effective programs to promote healthy lifestyles.  Fluent in three languages (with another on the way), Chen is a classical music and opera enthusiast — and a wannabe rock climber.

Hong Tien Vu, University of Kansas

Assistant Professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communications

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Published

2019-07-28

Issue

Vol. 13 (2019)

Section

Articles

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