Correlates of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use among college students in the United States

Introduction: HIV rates in the US continue to be high despite the availability of effective prevention medication such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Little is known about how undergraduate college students engaging with campus healthcare services use PrEP. This study of a national sample of undergraduate college students explored the sociodemographic and behavioral factors associated with PrEP use. Methods: Data were collected as part of the National College Health Assessment (NCHA). Logistic regression models were used to estimate the likelihood of PrEP use. Results: PrEP use was low (3.0%) and was associated with recent anal sex and identifying as men or transwomen. Being unsure about one’s HIV testing history was associated with higher odds of PrEP use, a potential concern considering how crucial HIV testing is to PrEP adherence. Discussion: College students may benefit from more explicit discussions around HIV tests and the results of those tests as well as targeted messaging campaigns around PrEP.