Assessing the Awareness and Knowledge on the Use of Probiotics by Healthcare Professionals in Nigeria

Objective: To assess the awareness and knowledge of healthcare professionals in Nigeria on probiotics. Methods: Participants were randomly sampled from major healthcare institutions in Nigeria’s capital. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered. Descriptive statistics was used in data analysis. Results: Results showed limited knowledge and awareness of probiotic products by the healthcare professionals assessed. Amongst the participants, pharmacists were more knowledgeable. Conclusion: The findings showed a limited knowledge on probiotics thus limiting their use. Knowledge on probiotics can be improved through seminars, update lectures, incorporating the topic in the curricula of upcoming professionals, amongst others. Pharmacists can also educate other professionals as they are widely regarded as drug experts and have shown to be more informed on this issue.

Key message: Healthcare professionals in Nigeria seem not to be aware of probiotic use despite their advantages. Improving this knowledge will help in increasing positive outcomes for diseases in which probiotics may be beneficial such as diarrhea.