Awareness and potential utilization of bacteriophages for therapeutic purposes among doctors in Saudi Arabia

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Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a significant global health challenge, necessitating alternative therapeutic strategies beyond conventional antibiotics. Phage therapy offers a promising alternative due to its high specificity for bacteria, ability to access complex infection sites, minimal off-target effects, and synergistic potential with antibiotics. This study aims to evaluate the awareness and possible adoption of phage therapy among doctors in Saudi Arabia to inform future research and its clinical integration. An anonymous online survey was distributed via email by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) and further promoted through local networks of clinicians. The inclusion criteria include active doctors who are working in Saudi Arabia and registered with the SCFHS. The survey yielded 102 valid responses from over 20 specialties and subspecialties. Results revealed doctors’ significant concerns about AMR's impact on their practice and a moderate familiarity with phage therapy. Key pathogens identified for phage therapy included methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium, and Streptococcus species. Priority clinical conditions were infections in immunocompromised patients, diabetic foot infections, blood infections, and infective endocarditis. Despite limited awareness of AMR alternatives, there was optimism about phage therapy's future role. Enhancing research, development, and access to phage therapy could provide major clinical and economic benefits.

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