<![CDATA[Background: Nightlife areas in urban communities may influence perceptions of HIV transmission risk. Differences in knowledge, experiences, and social environments may shape how residents understand and respond to HIV-related risks. Objective: This study aimed to explore urban community perceptions of HIV transmission risk in the area surrounding a nightclub. Methods: A qualitative study using a descriptive phenomenological approach was conducted among five residents living around the nightclub area. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using an interview guide and analyzed thematically to identify themes related to community perceptions of HIV transmission risk. Results: Six themes emerged: perceptions of nightlife, understanding of HIV, self-protection efforts, sources of information and the need for HIV education, experiences and learning about HIV, and feelings about living around nightlife areas. Participants had diverse perceptions of nightlife. Some perceived nightlife as potentially increasing the risk of disease, whereas others considered that nightlife did not directly affect health and had both positive and negative aspects. Understanding of HIV varied from recognizing HIV as an infectious disease to having limited knowledge. Participants reported protecting themselves by avoiding risky behaviors. Sources of HIV information included the internet, social media, health workers, and schools, although some participants had never received HIV education. Participants also expressed different feelings about living near nightlife areas, ranging from feeling safe and unafraid to concerns about the risk of HIV infection. Conclusion: Community perceptions of HIV transmission risk around nightlife areas varied in terms of views, knowledge, experiences, and feelings. The six themes illustrate how residents understand and respond to HIV-related risks in the nightlife environment.]]>
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