HIV Risk perception, Sexual behavior and HIV PrEP decision pathways among Adolescent girls and young women in low- and middle-Income countries: A scoping review protocol paper

HIV/AIDS remains a major global public health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 40.8 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2024. Women in low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected due to social, economic, biological and interpersonal factors compared to men. HIV risk perceptions is one of the major motivations to PrEP initiation, adherence and continuation. However, gaps still persist on perception of HIV risk and PrEP use among Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). Mixed evidences show a complex interplay between HIV risk, risk perception and PrEP use among AGYW. To further evaluate existing evidence on HIV risk perception, sexual behaviors and PrEP decision pathways (intentions to use or not use PrEP), we conducted a preliminary search in PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL databases, which identified relevant primary studies demonstrating convergent findings. We will conduct a scoping review as per Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) scoping review guidelines. Studies will be included if they are among AGYW (15-24 years), reporting HIV risk perception, sexual behaviors and PrEP use intentions from low- and middle-income countries. Data screening and extraction will be conducted by two independent reviewers, who will pilot (5-10%) of the articles for accuracy and consistency. Extracted data will be completed in excel sheet. Data will be analyzed in descriptive statistics and summative content analysis approach.