Stigma and HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS has been a highly stigmatized illness because of its associations with sexual behavior, drug use behavior, and the fact that in many places it disproportionately affects those considered outside the so-called mainstream of society — including men who have sex with men (MSM), sex workers, injection drug users (IDU), and migrant populations. Stigma can cause people to perceive individuals with or at risk for HIV as "the other," reinforcing the feeling that HIV infection "couldn't happen to me." Stigma can manifest itself in a variety of ways, from ignoring the needs of a person or group to inflicting psychological or physical harm.

HIV/AIDS programs must address stigma to be effective. Failure to deal with the issue of stigma may deter individuals from seeking voluntary counseling and testing or proper medical care. An emphasis on reducing stigma, particularly as it relates to women, is critical to eliminating discriminatory practices and laws, and improving quality of life for people living with or affected by HIV and AIDS.

Kenyan Women Combat AIDS Stigma (2005)

 

Women and HIV/AIDS: Experiences and Consequences of Stigma and Discrimination - Nepal (2004)

 

HIV and AIDS Discrimination and Stigma (2008)

 

HIV and AIDS-related Stigmatization, Discrimination and Denial: Forms, Contexts and Determinants. Research Studies from Uganda and India (2000, PDF, 205 KB)