Knowledge of HIV Transmission and Prevention among University Students in Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study

HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health problem internationally, with young adults being especially at risk because of behavioral and knowledge deficits. In Pakistan, cultural inhibitions and suboptimal health education are the main reasons for limited awareness, particularly among university students. This study had the objectives of determining the knowledge level about HIV transmission and prevention among undergraduate students in Kohsar University Murree (KUM) and to investigate correlations with salient demographic variables. A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 510 students aged 18-27 years through a pre-validated, standardized questionnaire with 12 knowledge-based items. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were utilized to determine knowledge levels and demographic associations. Overall, students had moderate knowledge (60 %) of HIV transmission and prevention. Clinical program students (82.4 %), older students (24–27 years, 72.9 %), and married students (81.3 %) all had significantly better knowledge scores. Income and gender had no statistically significant impact. Non-clinical, younger, and single students all showed substantial knowledge gaps. There are enormous differences in HIV-related awareness among university students, especially among the non-clinical and youth demographics. These observations point towards the critical necessity of incorporating holistic HIV education into all academic programs and running targeted awareness campaigns to enhance health literacy within university communities.