Behavioral Risk of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome in the University Student Community

Background and Objectives: Theoretically, university students could be at especially high risk in a human immunodeficiency virus-type epidemic. Peak incidence of human immunodeficiency virus infection occurs in this age group. Goals of this Study: The purpose of this study was to examine and characterize the behavior, attitudes, experiences, and knowledge of university students regarding human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Study Design: A written survey was distributed to 405 students at a small, academically select umversity. Data were analyzed by the "Statistics With Finesse" program on a microcomputer. Results: About 55% of the students considered themselves "sexually active," with 8.1% of these having had a sexually transmitted disease. Notwithstanding their concern and knowledge about human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, a significant percentage reported participating in highly risky behavior. Therefore, they were at a behavioral risk of acquiring a human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Conclusions: All that is needed for the epidemic to rapidly spread into the tertiary-education student community is an increase in the exposure of that community to human immunodeficiency virus. Knowledge and concern about human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome did not appear to be sufficient to prevent risky behavior in this population. The results indicate a need to reconsider some of our human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome education and prevention efforts.