Asthma among university students requires effective self-management supported by appropriate health information. However, there is a limited understanding of students’ information needs and how they apply such information in daily life exists, particularly in Ghanaian university settings. This study explored the health information needs and self-management practices of students with asthma at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS). A qualitative descriptive design was employed. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 students living with asthma across various academic programmes and years of study. Data were analyzed thematically in line with two objectives: 1) information needs regarding symptom management and trigger prevention, and 2) utilization of information in daily asthma self-management. Findings revealed diverse levels of asthma understanding, ranging from basic awareness to clinical knowledge. Participants reported strong needs for practical, simple, and actionable information, particularly for managing acute attacks and identifying hidden triggers such as stress, chemicals, and environmental exposures. Healthcare professionals were the most trusted information source, while digital platforms were widely used but inconsistently interpreted due to varying digital health literacy. Self-management practices ranged from structured and proactive behaviors to reactive symptom-based responses, influenced by emotional factors, academic stress, and environmental conditions. Confidence in managing asthma varied widely. Asthma self-management among students is shaped by gaps in practical knowledge, emotional burden, and contextual university factors. Strengthening tailored health education and digital health literacy is essential.
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