Evaluation of Medical Students’ Knowledge about Probiotics in Najaf, Iraq

Abstract

Background: Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when administered in adequate amounts. Their use is expanding in clinical practice, yet awareness among healthcare students remains variable. Objective: To assess the knowledge and perceptions of medical students in Najaf, Iraq, regarding probiotics. Methodology: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between October 2022 and February 2023 among 100 undergraduate students (4th–6th years) from pharmacy, medicine, and dentistry colleges. A structured questionnaire assessed self-reported knowledge, understanding of definitions, recognition of strains, and attitudes toward probiotic use. Results: About 63% correctly identified the WHO definition of probiotics, while 45.4% rated their knowledge as moderate. Lactobacillus acidophilus was the most recognised strain (31.2%), whereas 4% incorrectly identified Mycobacterium avium. Misconceptions were common, with 55.6% believing probiotics are only effective in capsule or powder forms. Sources of Knowledge was mainly books (28.6%), websites (26.5%), and pharmacies (24.5%). More than 75% had advised probiotic use, particularly during antibiotic therapy and gastrointestinal disturbances. Conclusion: Medical students in Najaf demonstrated moderate knowledge with several misconceptions about probiotics. Incorporating structured educational content into medical curricula could enhance evidence-based awareness and ensure better patient counselling in the future.