Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice about Nanomedicine in Drug Delivery Systems among Medical Students in Southern Libya

Abstract

Nanomedicine is an emerging approach in drug delivery with the potential to improve therapeutic efficacy, targeted delivery, and patient safety. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding nanomedicine among medical students in Southern Libya. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among medical students from health faculties in Southern Libya. Of 150 distributed questionnaires, 137 were returned (91.3% response rate). Data on sociodemographic characteristics, exposure, knowledge, attitudes, and practices were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Most participants were female (86.9%) and aged 21–23 years (44.5%). Academic exposure to nanomedicine was limited, with 93.4% having not attended related lectures or courses. Overall, 73.7% demonstrated good knowledge, while 51.1% had a negative attitude and 81.8% showed poor practice. Knowledge was good regarding nanomedicine definitions, nanoparticle applications, and nanocarriers, but awareness of clinical translation challenges was limited. No significant associations were found between sociodemographic characteristics and KAP levels (p > 0.05). Medical students demonstrated good knowledge but limited practical engagement and relatively negative attitudes toward nanomedicine. Incorporating nanomedicine into undergraduate curricula and increasing research opportunities may improve students’ preparedness for its future applications in healthcare.