A cross-sectional study to assess knowledge, attitudes, and risk perceptions of doctor of pharmacy students regarding asthma

Background: Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects a significant number of individuals worldwide. Effective management of asthma relies on the knowledge and competence of healthcare professionals. This study aimed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and risk perceptions regarding asthma among pharmacy students. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 among students enrolled in the final year of pharmacy at different universities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. A self-constructed and face-validated questionnaire was utilised for data collection, which lasted four months. The chi-square test and independent sample t-test were applied to establish associations. Results: Out of 302 students, 55.3% were female. The mean age of students was 23.1 +/- 1.3 years. Only 19.5% of participants had good knowledge, while 56% strongly agreed that educational skills are vital for becoming competent asthma educators, and 18.5% strongly believed they could manage asthma patients. Around 54% of the students were able to perceive age and a lack of patient knowledge as risk factors. Conclusion: The majority of students had moderate knowledge about asthma and mixed attitudes towards asthma management. Perceptions of asthma risks were adequate.