Correlates of HIV pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis uptake among female university students in Uganda

Abstract

Female university students engaging in high-risk sexual behaviours, such as transactional sex or unprotected sex, are eligible for HIV pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP/PEP). This study aimed to determine the uptake and correlates of PEP and PrEP use among female students at a public university in Uganda. We conducted an online survey among 483 female students at Makerere University and found that 53% had ever engaged in sexual intercourse, with a median debut of 20 years (interquartile range 18 to 22 years). Overall, 20% had sex with a person with HIV or of unknown status, and 9% experienced sexual assault. Despite 32% being eligible for PEP and 20% for PrEP, uptake remained low (9% and 2%, respectively). PEP use was associated with being married/cohabiting and perceived HIV risk. Low uptake of PrEP and PEP among eligible female students highlights the need for targeted awareness and accessibility efforts in academic institutions.