HIV and Sexual Health Awareness Among University Students: Findings from a World AIDS Day Survey in Milan

This study assessed HIV and sexual health knowledge among undergraduate medical students in Milan, Italy. An anonymous online survey with nine multiple-choice questions was distributed by email to students at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University in November 2024. Of 1004 respondents, 48% reported comprehensive and 44% partial knowledge of HIV. Awareness of PrEP, PEP, and "U=U" was 47%, 45%, and 46%, respectively. HIV stigma persisted, with 36% considering it a taboo subject. Knowledge was significantly associated with prior sexual health education, highlighting the need for strengthened sexual health training to address gaps and reduce stigma.