Awareness, Attitude, and Willingness to Use HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis in Davao City

Abstract

To improve upon the implementation and utilization of HIV PrEP programs, factors affecting HIV PrEP willingness must be investigated. This study aims to determine not only the willingness to use HIV PrEP but also to establish whether awareness and attitude affect this. This study used a cross-sectional survey research design to examine the awareness, attitude, and willingness to use HIV PrEP in Davao City. Participants were at least 18 years of age, currently living in Davao City, and permanent residents of the city. The survey was adapted from multiple studies and was determined to be valid and reliable. Statistical analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics, such as correlation, linear regression, and structural modeling. A total of 258 respondents were gathered in this study, of which 53.10% of all respondents were fully aware of HIV PrEP, while 27.13% were partially aware. The study found the mean attitude and willingness to be 4.21 ± 0.972 and 4.08 ± 0.685, respectively. There was a significant difference in awareness when grouped according to gender identity (X² = 24.428; p-value = .002) and highest education attained (X² = 15.919; p-value = .044). Being fully aware positively affected willingness to use HIV PrEP by indirectly contributing positively to attitude towards HIV PrEP (β = 0.263; p-value = .012). Generally, the results were found to be favorable. However, some respondents are hesitant to use HIV PrEP if it is not one hundred percent effective and are unable to adhere to it. The results imply a need for action programs involving various multidisciplinary stakeholders to ensure the community possesses full awareness, positive attitudes, and increased willingness to use HIV PrEP.