AWARENESS AND UPTAKE OF HIV PRE-EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS (PREP) AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS IN OR TAMBO DISTRICT, SOUTH AFRICA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

 Introduction: Expanding access to oral HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) among young people and college students remains critical for the prevention of HIV in South Africa. This study assessed awareness and uptake of PrEP among college students in the OR Tambo district. Method: A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed. Data were collected through structured, self-administered questionnaires distributed to 155 students who met the inclusion criteria (n=155). Results: All 155 respondents (100%) reported awareness of PrEP. The majority were female (60%) and aged 20–25 years (84.5%), with a mean age of 22.14 years (SD ±4.48). The most commonly cited source of information was health promotion events on campus (41.9%). Interpersonal engagement was high, with 70.3% of students discussing PrEP with friends or partners. Additionally, 81.9% indicated that healthcare workers provide PrEP information during clinic visits. Despite this high awareness and engagement, uptake was low, with only 15.5% of respondents currently using PrEP. Conclusion: While awareness and attitudes toward PrEP are positive, uptake remains limited. Barriers include restricted access, preference for injectable PrEP, and gaps in risk perception. Targeted health education, improved accessibility, and youth-friendly services are needed to increase PrEP uptake and reduce HIV infections among young people.