Knowledge, attitude and practice toward probiotics among the general population: a cross-sectional study.

This study aims to investigate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) toward probiotics among the general population. A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and July 2023 among the general population in the north of China. Demographic information and KAP were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. A total of 1,452 valid questionnaires were enrolled, including 931 (64.12%) females. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 10.94 ± 2.97 (possible range: 0-26), 34.57 ± 3.15 (possible range: 17-85), and 22.57 ± 3.72 (possible range: 6-30), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression showed that knowledge (OR = 1.193, 95% CI: 1.145-1.246, P < 0.001), urban residence (OR = 1.475, 95% CI: 1.119-1.945, P = 0.006), monthly household income of 5,000-10,000 yuan (OR = 1. 365, 95% CI: 1.023-1.821, P = 0.034), and self-ratings of healthy dietary status (OR = 1.138, 95% CI: 1.063-1.219, P < 0.001) were independently associated with proactive practice. Structural equation model revealed that knowledge had a direct negative effect on attitude (β = -0.36, 95%CI: -0.48-0.23, P < 0.001), and direct effect was found between attitude and practice (β = -1.00, 95%CI: -1.27-0.72, P < 0.001). However, knowledge demonstrated substantially direct effects (β = 0.60, 95%CI: 0.38-0.81, P < 0.001) and indirect effect on practice (β = 0.36, 95%CI: 0.25-0.47, P < 0.001). General population in the north of China had inadequate knowledge, negative attitude and proactive practice towards probiotics. Healthcare professionals should prioritize educational initiatives to improve probiotics knowledge and dispel misconceptions. Efforts to improve public attitudes towards probiotics are needed to address misconceptions and highlight their health benefits, emphasizing their role in health maintenance.