AUTHOR=Chory Ashley , Gillette Emma , Callen Grant , Wachira Juddy , Sam-Agudu Nadia A. , Bond Keosha , Vreeman Rachel 

TITLE=Gender differences in HIV knowledge among adolescents and young people in low-and middle-income countries: a systematic review

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Reproductive Health

VOLUME=Volume 5 - 2023

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/reproductive-health/articles/10.3389/frph.2023.1154395

DOI=10.3389/frph.2023.1154395

ISSN=2673-3153

ABSTRACT=This review seeks to critically analyze studies assessing gender differences in HIV-related knowledge among adolescents and young people in low- and middle-income countries. Using PRISMA guidelines and searching online databases, the search strategy combined search keywords with Boolean operators: (HIV OR AIDS) AND (knowledge) AND (gender) AND (adolescents). AC and EG conducted the search and independently reviewed all articles; conflicts were resolved by GC. Fifteen studies met selection criteria. Twelve evaluated differences in HIV knowledge in school settings; three evaluated participants in clinic settings. Adolescent males consistently scored higher in composite knowledge scores, as well as knowledge of HIV transmission, prevention, attitudes and sexual decision-making. We found gender-based discrepancies between knowledge, perception of risk and HIV prevalence among youth globally, with boys consistently scoring higher in HIV knowledge. However, there is significant evidence that social and cultural contexts render girls at high risk of HIV infection, and the gaps in girls’ knowledge and boys’ roles in HIV risk must be addressed urgently. Future research should consider interventions that facilitate discussion and HIV knowledge building across genders.