Page 130 - Ebook-Book JCMS 2025

Evaluating Knowledge, Risk Perception and Attitudes Towards
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infection Among Thai
University Students
Phusayam Anurakwongsri1, Lanlalin Sojikul1, Yanwadee Chitkoolsamphan1, Thana Khawcharoenporn2*
1 Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University
2 Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Thammasat University
*Corresponding Author E-mail: thanak30@yahoo.com
Background: Abstract
Existing data on knowledge, risk perception, and attitudes towards HIV infection among
Thai university students is limited.
Methods: An anonymous online survey was conducted in February 2025 among Thammasat
University students. Participants were stratified into 3 risk groups (high, moderate, and low)
based on the pre-specified HIV risks.
Results: Of the 379 included students, most were female (71%) and heterosexual (71%), and were
categorized as low-risk (72%), moderate-risk (20%), and high-risk (9%). A significantly
larger proportion of male were in the moderate- and high-risk groups. Rates of consistent
condom use for vaginal, anal and oral sex were low (67%, 48% and 29%, respectively). Most
students (≥80%) were knowledgeable about HIV risk behaviors and transmission routes
but less knowledgeable about antiretroviral drug use for treatment and prevention. Most
students (≥90%) agreed that HIV prevention is an important public health agenda for
Thailand and they will get tested if engaging in risky behaviors while >50% were uncertain
about efficacy and safety of pre-exposure prophylaxis. Of the 379 students, 24 (6%) had
false perception of low HIV risk. These 24 students were more-likely than other students to
disagree that consistent condom use can reduce risk of HIV infection (21% vs. 6%). Being
homosexual was significantly associated with false perception of low HIV risk (odds ratio
3.75; P=0.006).
Conclusion: The findings suggest the need to promote consistent condom use, improve knowledge
on HIV treatment and prevention and focus on risk behaviors reduction among at-risk
students, especially homosexual and male students.
128 Joint Conference in Medical Sciences 2025