Patterns of Access and Trust in HIV/AIDS Information Sources among University Students

Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a life-threatening virus that can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS); therefore, prevention and accurate information are essential. University students actively seek health information, yet easily accessible sources are not always the most reliable. This study aimed to analyze patterns of access, levels of trust, and the frequency of searching for HIV/AIDS information among university students. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 134 students with a mean age of 18.1 ± 0.6 years, the majority of whom were female (64.2%). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed descriptively. The internet was the most frequently accessed source of HIV/AIDS information (66.42%) and showed the highest search frequency (mean = 3.25 ± 0.72), followed by schools (23.88%; mean = 3.12 ± 0.74). In contrast, healthcare professionals and parents were less frequently utilized, despite being perceived as more credible sources. Overall, the findings indicate a mismatch between accessibility, trust, and information-seeking intensity among university students. Integrating credible sources, such as healthcare professionals and educational institutions, into accessible digital platforms is necessary to enhance HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention efforts.