TITLE:
Knowledge of Human Papillomavirus and Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Preventive Service Uptake, and Barriers among University Students in Anambra State, Nigeria
AUTHORS:
Nzube F. Ekpunobi, Eddison I. Oghonyon, Chidimma R. Chukwunwejim, Moses Afolayan, Chinedu E. Ude, Bilal A. Muhammad, Flywell Kawonga, Abduljalal Y. Nadabo, Olayinka O. Asafa, Moses Ssemwanga, Kingsley C. Agu, Malachy C. Ugwu
KEYWORDS:
Human Papillomavirus, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, University Students, Prevention, Anambra
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.14 No.11,
November
4,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: University students may be at increased risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection when sexual activity coincides with limited prevention knowledge and low uptake of preventive services. Aim: To assess HPV/HIV knowledge, preventive practices, service engagement, and perceived barriers among students at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Anambra State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey included 300 consenting students recruited through WhatsApp using convenience sampling between July and August 2026. The study defined a four-item core knowledge indicator that distinguished general awareness from consistent prevention-related knowledge. Multivariable logistic regression examined the association between complete core knowledge and previous HIV testing, adjusting for age, sex, relationship status, and year of study. Results: HPV awareness was high (84.7%). However, 60.3% knew HPV could cause cancer, 51.3% were aware of HPV vaccination, and 42.0% correctly answered all four core knowledge items. Only 113 participants (37.7%) reported previous HIV testing. Complete core knowledge was associated with higher adjusted odds of previous HIV testing (aOR 2.53, 95% CI 1.48 - 4.33). None reported HPV vaccination. Among female participants with valid cervical-screening responses (n = 182), none reported previous screening. Overall, 66.3% did not know whether cervical screening was accessible. Conclusions: Among students surveyed, high HPV awareness did not translate into adequate prevention knowledge or use of preventive services. Uncertainty about service access also remained. These findings highlight the need for accurate, stigma-sensitive education and clear pathways to confidential, affordable HIV testing, HPV vaccination, and age-appropriate cervical cancer prevention.