Evaluation of awareness and knowledge levels about microbiota and probiotics among final-year medical students at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine

In our study, we aimed to evaluate the awareness and knowledge levels regarding microbiota and probiotics among final-year medical students at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine. The study sample consisted of 154 final-year students enrolled in the 2024–2025 academic year at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine. Data were collected through a 56-item questionnaire. The questionnaire included 36 questions assessing participants' sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge levels, attitudes, and behaviors regarding microbiota and probiotics, as well as 20 questions from the Microbiota Awareness Scale. The mean age of the participants was 23.9 ± 1.1 years. On a scale of 1 to 10, participants rated their self-perceived knowledge level as 4.2 ± 2.0 on average. Those who rated themselves higher also demonstrated higher actual knowledge levels. Participants reported that they obtained their information mainly from faculty education (76.3%) and the internet/social media (64.5%). Those who cited the internet/social media as their primary source had lower knowledge levels. The most frequently reported factors affecting the microbiota were diet (81%) and drug/antibiotic use (42.1%). The three most common indications for probiotic use were gastrointestinal complaints/diseases (93.1%), immune system strengthening (62.1%), and antibiotic-related side effects (44.8%). A total of 86.4% of participants stated that they recommended probiotics to others. As the knowledge level increased, the rates of probiotic use, perceived benefit, and recommendation also increased. Furthermore, 76.0% of participants expressed interest in receiving education on this topic. Based on the 22 knowledge-based statements designed to assess participants' understanding, the mean number of correct answers was 11.6 ± 3.6. The mean score obtained from the Microbiota Awareness Scale was 64.9 ± 12.0. Participants with a higher number of correct answers also scored higher on the awareness scale. In conclusion, although final-year medical students demonstrated a certain level of awareness regarding microbiota and probiotics, their knowledge level was found to be insufficient and needs improvement. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the enhancement of medical education programs and to the promotion of microbiota awareness in society. Keywords: microbiota, probiotics, knowledge level, awareness, student