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Research Article Volume 12 Issue 2
When awareness fails: understanding why future educators continue to self-medicate
Tania Torres Aguilar, Tania Margoth Huarancca Quispe
Received: February 26, 2026 | Published: March 17, 2026
Citation: Aguila TT, Quisp TMH. When awareness fails: understanding why future educators continue to self-medicate. Nurse Care Open Acces J. 2026;12(1):46-50. DOI: 10.15406/ncoaj.2026.12.00339
Abstract
Self-medication constitutes a growing public health problem, particularly among young populations who, due to their immediate access to digital information and over-the-counter medications, tend to reproduce risky health behaviors. This study aimed to determine the relationship between knowledge levels and attitudes regarding self-medication practices among students of the Public Pedagogical Higher Education Institute “Nuestra Señora de Lourdes” in Ayacucho, Peru, during 2023. A quantitative, cross-sectional, and correlational study was conducted with 313 students selected through convenience sampling. Data collection was carried out using a validated and reliable questionnaire that assessed self-medication practices, knowledge levels, and attitudes toward this behavior. The results revealed a high prevalence of self-medication (93.6%), predominantly moderate knowledge (51.8%), and generally negative attitudes toward the practice (92.3%). Statistical analysis showed a significant inverse correlation between knowledge level and self-medication practices (r = -0.119; p = 0.035), while no significant relationship was found between attitudes and practices (p = 0.184). It is concluded that greater knowledge is associated with lower self-medication, although contradictions persist between expressed attitudes and observed behavior. These findings highlight the need to implement educational strategies targeting future teachers in order to promote rational medication use and prevent risks associated with self-medication.
Keywords: self-medication, students, attitudes, knowledge, public health
©2026 Aguila, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.