Exploring HIV/AIDS Awareness, Misconceptions, and Stigma among University Students: A Basis for an Institutional Action Plan for Prevention and Intervention

Abstract

This report presents an in-depth analysis of a study investigating HIV/AIDS awareness, misconceptions, and stigma among 300 university students in Western Visayas. The primary objective is to enhance comprehension of the study's findings and provide a robust foundation for evidence-based institutional action plans aimed at prevention and intervention. The study revealed that while students generally possess a high level of awareness regarding HIV/AIDS (Mean = 3.84), a significant proportion simultaneously holds persistent misconceptions, particularly concerning non-transmission modes. For instance, nearly half (47%) incorrectly believe mosquito bites can transmit HIV. Concurrently, moderate levels of HIV/AIDS-related stigma were observed (Mean = 2.91). A critical finding was the statistically significant moderate negative correlation between awareness and stigma (r = -0.54, p <.001), indicating that an increase in accurate knowledge is associated with a reduction in stigmatizing attitudes. Furthermore, the understanding of HIV/AIDS varied significantly across different academic programs, with students in health-related and education fields demonstrating a more nuanced comprehension. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted, evidence-based educational interventions. Key recommendations include the integration of precise HIV/AIDS education across all university curricula, the implementation of peer-led campaigns to normalize discussions and challenge fear-based narratives, and the establishment of robust institutional policy support for sustained initiatives. Such strategies are essential to bridge the gap between general awareness and accurate understanding, thereby effectively reducing stigma within the university community.