HIV-related stigma among an urban sample of persons living with HIV at risk for dropping out of HIV-oriented primary medical care.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

HIV-related stigma is one of the greatest barriers to preventing and ending the HIV epidemic. The purpose of our study was to examine HIV-related stigma among urban adults voluntarily seeking HIV-oriented primary medical care and at risk for dropping out after enrolling. The baseline cross-sectional analysis of perceived HIV-related stigma upon enrolling in care examined the level of HIV-related stigma and its sub-domains: personalized, disclosure, negative self-image, and public attitudes. Our study also identified precursors of HIV-related stigma and associated outcomes. HIV-related stigma continues to be a significant problem for persons living with HIV; those perceiving higher levels of HIV-related stigma reported a poorer quality of life, both physically and mentally. The relationship between HIV-related stigma and mental health was closely connected in our sample.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Relf, MV; Rollins, KV

Published Date

  • January 2015

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 26 / 1

Start / End Page

  • 36 - 45

PubMed ID

  • 24881591

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1552-6917

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1055-3290

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1016/j.jana.2014.03.003

Language

  • eng