Self-Reporting of Adverse Drug Reactions in Iraqi Hospitals: Patient’s Perspectives

Background: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) represent the important cause of morbidity and mortality that affect patients using drugs. Previous studies have clarified the knowledge and attitude toward ADRs reporting among healthcare providers, while studies toward awareness of patients are limited. Aim and Objective: To evaluate knowledge and attitude toward ADRs reporting among patients visiting general hospitals in Baghdad City. Methods: This observational study was conducted on randomly selected 300 patients at the out-patient setting of general hospitals in Baghdad. Demographic characteristics of participants were documented and questionnaire regarding knowledge and perceptions was given to fill up, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Demographic analysis showed that 55% of patients were males, 62% of them were from rural areas, and only 34% were college graduates. Regarding knowledge about ADRs, 73.3% patients were aware about ADRs and 37% had experienced ADRs in past. None of the respondents were aware of ADR reporting center. Regarding perceptions toward ADR, 84.2% agreed to report ADR in future and 90% respondents believed that ADR reporting may strengthen the patient safety. According to 61% of patients, patient education program is the best way to educate them regarding ADR. Conclusion: Educational interventions are highly recommended to improve awareness among patients regarding the validity of ADRs reporting.