ปัจจัยทำนายความความตั้งใจในการเริ่มใช้ยาเอชไอวีเพร็พของนักเรียนชั้นมัธยมศึกษาตอนปลาย อำเภอศรีรัตนะ จังหวัดศรีสะเกษ

Abstract

Introduction: The transmission of HIV among adolescents has significant implications for their long-term life outcomes. Therefore, having knowledge about HIV PrEP medication can be an effective approach to prevent HIV infection. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the factors related to awareness, motivation, and behavioral skills influencing the initiation of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (HIV PrEP) among high school students in Sisaket Province, Thailand. Methodology: The study employed a population-based survey among high school students in Sisaket Province who were not infected with HIV/AIDS, using systematic random sampling. A total of 267 participants were included in the study. Data were collected through questionnaires from December 1, 2021, to January 31, 2022. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and stepwise multiple regression analysis. Results: The findings revealed that the majority of the sample had moderate intention to initiate HIV PrEP (2.83±1.17). The variables that significantly predicted the initiation of HIV PrEP among high school students accounted for 59.70% of the variance (R2 = .776, p < 0.05). The three most influential positive predictors, ranked in descending order of importance, were self-efficacy (B = 0.500), action planning (B = 0.251), and social norms (B = 0.144). Other variables, including subjective information perception, motivation to accept risk, personal attitudes, and problem-solving planning, had positive influences but were not statistically significant. Objective information perception had a negative influence but was not statistically significant. Conclusion: The study findings can serve as a guideline to enhance self-efficacy, action planning, and societal values among high school students, encouraging them to initiate HIV PrEP as a preventive measure against HIV infection before engaging in risky behaviors.