Understanding How Information Sources Shape Perceptions of HIV Among Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) in Tajikistan: A Qualitative Study.

Adolescents and young adults (AYA) aged 15-24 in Tajikistan have the lowest comprehensive knowledge of HIV compared to other AYA in Eastern Europe and Central Asia; however, little research has explored what sources of HIV information they utilize. We conducted a qualitative study with 36 AYA in Dushanbe, grouped by gender and age. Participants engaged in participatory activities and discussions over two sessions. We conducted thematic analysis and identified three main themes: (1) school-based HIV education was limited and technical, leaving practical knowledge gaps; (2) social networks often spread inaccurate, stigmatizing information; and (3) AYA preferred professional sources but had limited access, relying instead on potentially inaccurate sources like social media. Tajik AYA lack information sources which empower them with accurate information and build their capacity to engage in preventive behaviors. Educational efforts must move beyond knowledge enhancement to address social and structural barriers to information sharing regarding HIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]