2 research outputs found
An exploratory survey measuring stigma and discrimination experienced by people living with HIV/AIDS in South Africa : the People Living with HIV Stigma Index
Background: The continued presence of stigma and its persistence even in areas where HIV prevalence is high
makes it an extraordinarily important, yet difficult, issue to eradicate. The study aimed to assess current and
emerging HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination trends in South Africa as experienced by people living with HIV/AIDS
(PLHIV).
Methods: The PLHIV Stigma Index, a questionnaire that measures and detects changing trends in relation to
stigma and discrimination experienced by PLHIV, was used as the survey tool. The study was conducted in 10
clinics in four provinces supported by the Foundation for Professional Development (FPD), with an interview total
of 486 PLHIV. A cross-sectional design was implemented in the study, and both descriptive and inferential analysis
was conducted on the data.
Results: Findings suggest that PLHIV in this population experience significant levels of stigma and discrimination
that negatively impact on their health, working and family life, as well as their access to health services. Internalised
stigma was prominent, with many participants blaming themselves for their status.
Conclusion: The findings can be used to develop and inform programmes and interventions to reduce stigma
experienced by PLHIV. The current measures for dealing with stigma should be expanded to incorporate the issues
related to health, education and discrimination experienced in the workplace, that were highlighted by the study.Psycholog