Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a major global health challenge, disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations in low-resource settings. Urban slum dwellers, often living in overcrowded and resource-limited conditions, are among the most vulnerable to HIV infection due to socioeconomic and structural factors. Understanding perceived vulnerability and transmission knowledge is key to developing effective prevention strategies. This study assessed these factors among urban slum adults, offering insights into their awareness and its determinants. METHODS: The study employed a cross-sectional survey conducted in slum areas of Dhaka, Bangladesh, using face-to-face interviews with 482 participants selected through convenient sampling (non-probability). Participants aged 18 years or older were included in this study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, following rigorous training of research assistants, and the process was piloted to refine the instruments. Statistical analysis was performed using Excel, SPSS and Stata, incorporating descriptive and multiple linear regression analyses with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. RESULTS: The study revealed that participants had a mean age of 38.1 years (±13.92), with HIV vulnerability associated with being female, having family members with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), cooperative family dynamics, and moderate sleep durations. HIV knowledge was notably low, positively influenced by being male, educated, higher-income, and engaging in social media use and physical exercise, while smoking negatively impacted knowledge. A negative association was found between perceived HIV vulnerability and knowledge, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address these gaps. CONCLUSION: The study identifies socio-demographic and behavioral factors affecting HIV vulnerability and knowledge among urban slum dwellers. Tailored HIV-related education for women, disadvantaged groups, and families with STD histories is vital to reducing stigma and improving awareness. Community initiatives like smoking cessation, healthy lifestyle promotion, and digital literacy are crucial for addressing disparities and enhancing well-being.