The Effectiveness of the EDHIV Game Intervention on HIV/AIDS Knowledge and Risk Behavior Among Adolescents

Abstract

The high global and national prevalence of HIV/AIDS, particularly among the 15–24 age group, underscores the urgent need for innovative and engaging preventive education. This study aimed to analyze the effect of a new educational intervention, the EDHIV Game, on improving HIV/AIDS knowledge and reducing risk behavior among adolescents. A quasi-experimental design using a pre-test and post-test with a control group was conducted involving 156 adolescents (78 in the intervention group and 78 in the control group), primarily aged 14–16 years. The intervention group received the EDHIV Game, while the control group received standard health education. Data were collected using validated questionnaires for knowledge and self-reported risk behavior. The results showed a significant increase in knowledge scores and a significant reduction in risk behavior scores in the intervention group compared to the control group (p<0.001). The EDHIV Game is statistically effective as a media-based intervention to promote comprehensive HIV/AIDS literacy. Future implementation is recommended in school-based and community-based health promotion programs targeting youth.