Knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Undergraduate Students in Nigerian Universities: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) remain a significant global public health concern, disproportionately affecting young adults, including university undergraduates. Knowledge gaps, cultural norms, and poor health-seeking behaviours contribute to STI transmission and untreated infections.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework. Seven databases: Science Research, BMC Journal, PubMed, ResearchGate, Wiley Online Library, Open Public Health Journal, and AJOL were searched for studies published between 2013 and 2024. Inclusion was guided by the Population-Concept-Context (PCC) framework (Population: undergraduates; Concept: STI knowledge; Context: university settings). A two-stage screening process was performed using Zotero and Rayyan. Data were charted and analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke's inductive approach.

Results: Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Most were conducted in Nigeria (n=7), followed by countries in Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and North America. Findings consistently revealed poor knowledge of most STIs, misconceptions about symptoms and transmission, low health-seeking behaviour, peer influence, traditional/cultural barriers, and limited access to preventive services. Only a few studies assessed long-term knowledge retention or evaluated culturally embedded intervention approaches.

Conclusion: Undergraduate students across various regions demonstrate inadequate knowledge about STIs, influenced by social, cultural, and structural factors. There is a critical need for sustained, culturally responsive, nurse-led sexual health education programmes tailored to university environments. Future research should explore long-term behavioural outcomes and context-specific interventions.