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Horsakulchai W, Sermprasartkul T, Sumetchoengprachya P, Chummaneekul P, Rungruang N, Uthis P, Sripan P, Srithanaviboonchai K. Factors associated with internalized HIV-related stigma among people living with HIV in Thailand. AIDS Care 2024; 36:1452-1461. [PMID: 38289537 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2308742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Internalized HIV-related stigma (IHS) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) has been documented as one of the factors contributing to the ongoing AIDS epidemic. The purpose of this study, which was conducted from September 2021 to January 2022, was to measure prevalence and identify factors associated with IHS among research participants who were living with HIV recruited from a research clinic in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. Participants were considered to have IHS if they agreed to at least one of the 8 items of the newly developed Thai Internalized HIV-related Stigma Scale (Thai-IHSS). Of the 104 participants, 65.4% were female. The median age was 51.5 years and the duration of known HIV infection was 19.0 years. Fifty-three percent of the participants had IHS as defined by the study. Reduced probability of having IHS was independently associated with certain levels of education (middle or high school education compared with no or primary school) (AOR = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.12-0.77) and increased mental health-related quality of life (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.18-0.86). The prevalence of IHS among PLHIV in Chiang Mai was high. These findings highlight the requirement for comprehensive mental health care programs for PLHIV to improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Penpaktr Uthis
- Faculty of Nursing, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Patumrat Sripan
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kriengkrai Srithanaviboonchai
- Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Lo Hog Tian JM, Watson JR, Cioppa L, Murphy M, Boni AR, Parsons JA, Maunder RG, Rourke SB. The Role of Dimensions of Social Support in the Relationship Between Stigma and Mental Health: A Moderation Analysis. AIDS Behav 2024:10.1007/s10461-024-04506-9. [PMID: 39325117 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-024-04506-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
HIV stigma remains a barrier to good health and understanding how social support may reduce the negative impact of stigma on health may help with designing stigma interventions. This study aims to understand how different types of social support may moderate or change the nature of the relationship between stigma and mental health. We recruited 327 participants to complete the People Living with HIV Stigma Index at baseline (t1) between August 2018 and September 2019 and at follow-up (t2) between February 2021 and October 2021. Separate moderation models were created with different types of social support (emotional/informational, tangible, affectionate, positive social interaction) as moderators, baseline stigma (internalized, enacted, anticipated) as the antecedent, and mental health (t2) as the outcome. Emotional/informational support was a significant moderator for the relationship between enacted (b = -2.12, 95% CI: -3.73, -0.51), internalized (b = -1.72, 95% CI: -3.24, -0.20), and anticipated (b = -2.59, 95% CI: -4.59, -0.60) stigma at t1 and mental health at t2. Tangible support was a significant moderator for internalized stigma (b = -1.54, 95% CI: -2.74, -0.35). Lastly, positive social interaction was a significant moderator for internalized (b = -1.38, 95% CI: -2.71, -0.04) and anticipated stigma (b = -2.14, 95% CI: -3.93, -0.36). In general, the relationship between social support and better mental health was stronger for participants with low stigma. Intervention strategies aimed at both stigma reduction and boosting social supports with different functions may be important for improving the mental health of people living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Lo Hog Tian
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - James R Watson
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lynne Cioppa
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michael Murphy
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Anthony R Boni
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Janet A Parsons
- Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Sean B Rourke
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Nilsson Schönnesson L, Dahlberg M, Reinius M, Zeluf-Andersson G, Ekström AM, Eriksson LE. Prevalence of HIV-related stigma manifestations and their contributing factors among people living with HIV in Sweden - a nationwide study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1360. [PMID: 38769531 PMCID: PMC11106865 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18852-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) HIV infection is a chronic manageable condition and non-sexually transmissible. Yet, many people living with HIV still testify about experiencing HIV-related stigma and discrimination. It is well-documented that HIV-related stigma and discrimination continue to be critical barriers to prevention, treatment, care and quality of life. From an individual stigma-reduction intervention perspective, it is essential to identify individual and interpersonal factors associated with HIV-related stigma manifestations. To address this issue and to expand the literature, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of HIV-related stigma manifestations and their associated factors among a diverse sample of people living with HIV in Sweden. METHOD Data from 1 096 participants were derived from a nationally representative, anonymous cross-sectional survey "Living with HIV in Sweden". HIV-related stigma manifestations were assessed using the validated Swedish 12-item HIV Stigma Scale encompassing four HIV-related stigma manifestations: personalised stigma, concerns with public attitudes towards people living with HIV, concerns with sharing HIV status, and internalized stigma. Variables potentially associated with the HIV-related stigma manifestations were divided into four categories: demographic characteristics, clinical HIV factors, distress and ART adherence, and available emotional HIV-related support. Four multivariable hierarchical linear regression analyses were employed to explore the associations between multiple contributors and HIV-related stigma manifestations. RESULTS The most dominating stigma feature was anticipation of HIV-related stigma. It was manifested in high scores on concerns with sharing HIV status reported by 78% of the participants and high scores on concerns about public attitudes towards people living with HIV reported by 54% of the participants. High scores on personalised stigma and internalized stigma were reported by around one third of the participants respectively. Between 23 and 31% of the variance of the four reported HIV-related stigma manifestations were explained mainly by the same pattern of associated factors including female gender, shorter time since HIV diagnosis, feelings of hopelessness, non-sharing HIV status, and lack of available emotional HIV-related support. CONCLUSION The most dominating stigma feature was anticipation of stigma. Female gender, shorter time since HIV diagnosis, feelings of hopelessness, non-sharing HIV status, and lack of available emotional HIV-related support constituted potential vulnerability factors of the four HIV-related stigma manifestations. Our findings highlight the vital necessity to support people living with HIV to increase their resilience to stigma in its different forms. Exploring associated factors of HIV-related stigma manifestations may give an indication of what circumstances may increase the risk of stigma burden and factors amenable to targeted interventions. As individual stigma-reductions interventions cannot be performed isolated from HIV-related stigma and discrimination in society, a key challenge is to intensify anti-stigma interventions also on the societal level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marie Dahlberg
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Reinius
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Medical Management Centre, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Anna-Mia Ekström
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, South General Hospital/Venhälsan, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars E Eriksson
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
- School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
- Medical Unit Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden
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Dai Z, Wu Y, Liu X, Fu J, Si M, Chen X, Wang H, Xiao W, Huang Y, Yu F, Mi G, Su X. Characteristics and influencing factors of anticipated HIV stigma among HIV-negative/unknown MSM in China: A regression mixture model. Brain Behav 2024; 14:e3472. [PMID: 38549560 PMCID: PMC10979188 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anticipated HIV stigma among men who have sex with men's (MSM) has a severe negative effect on their physical and mental health wellbeing and hence requires specific attention. The current study aims to identify the characteristics and the psychosocial influencing factors of anticipated HIV stigma in MSM using regression mixture model (RMM) and to determine the cut-off point of the seven-item Anticipated HIV Stigma Questionnaire (AHSQ) using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV-negative/unknown MSM from Blued online platform in China from December 16th, 2020 to March 1st, 2021, enrolling 1394 participants. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, perceived social support, anticipated HIV stigma, depressive symptoms, and HIV knowledge. Latent profile analysis was performed to identify different profiles of anticipated HIV stigma level. Chi-square test, analysis of variance, and RMM analysis were conducted to explore the influencing factors in different profiles. ROC analyses were carried out to identify the cut-off value of anticipated stigma. RESULTS Among the participants, three profiles of anticipated stigma were identified: "low anticipated HIV stigma" (12.0%), "moderate anticipated HIV stigma" (52.1%), and "severe anticipated HIV stigma" (35.9%). RMM analysis showed that higher income and higher levels of knowledge were positively associated with moderate anticipated HIV stigma, whereas full-time job and social support were negatively associated with moderate anticipated HIV stigma; higher income, depressive symptoms, and knowledge were positively associated with severe anticipated HIV stigma, whereas minor ethnicity and social support were negatively associated with severe anticipated HIV stigma. ROC curve of the AHSQ showed that the optimal cut-off value of ≥16 could indicate positive anticipated HIV stigma. CONCLUSION The study focuses on the level of anticipated HIV stigma and its psycho-socio influencing factors among HIV-negative/unknown MSM. It provides evidence for implementing relevant psychological interventions to HIV-negative/unknown MSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwei Dai
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yijin Wu
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Xin Liu
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Jiaqi Fu
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Mingyu Si
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Xu Chen
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Weijun Xiao
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yiman Huang
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Fei Yu
- Danlan Public WelfareBeijingChina
| | | | - Xiaoyou Su
- School of Population Medicine and Public HealthChinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
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Harris GE, Watson JR, Li ATW, Ibáñez-Carrasco F, Muchenje M, Demetrakopoulos AS, McGee A, Chambers L, Gahagan J, Ceranto A, Cumby C, Liddell M. Meaningful inclusion of people living with HIV as a model for workplace policies: Key findings from the project PEER study. Work 2024; 78:489-503. [PMID: 38427522 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a large number of people live with HIV, it is worthwhile to examine the integration of this group in the workplace. OBJECTIVE To investigate how the operationalization of GIPA/MEPA supports workplace policies and practices for PLHIV. The study aims to explore what is being offered to support PLHIV in community-based agencies and what can be done to enhance the offerings. METHODS For this community-based research, 2 bilingual online surveys were sent to 150 Canadian organizations that work closely with PLHIV or offer support to them. One of the surveys was for Executive Directors of these organizations while the other was sent to peers; i.e. PLHIV whose job is to offer services to PLHIV. Questions in the surveys varied between open-ended, binary, and Likert. RESULTS GIPA/MEPA are implemented in most organizations and Executive Directors affirmed that PLHIV and their impacts on the workplace are valued. There is a consensus among Executive Directors that formal support is provided but most respondents argued that this support is not specific for PLHIV. More than half of respondents were either unaware or uncertain about the existence of informal support. Peer-employees claimed that one of the challenges of disclosing HIV to receive peer support is that they may face stigma. CONCLUSION The application of GIPA/MEPA results in positive outcomes in the workplace. The study emphasizes the need to facilitate access to informal support.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James R Watson
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Alan Tai-Wai Li
- CAAT-Community Alliance for Accessible Treatment, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Marvelous Muchenje
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - A McGee
- Memorial University, St. John's, Canada
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Schweitzer AM, Dišković A, Krongauz V, Newman J, Tomažič J, Yancheva N. Addressing HIV stigma in healthcare, community, and legislative settings in Central and Eastern Europe. AIDS Res Ther 2023; 20:87. [PMID: 38082352 PMCID: PMC10714556 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-023-00585-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Surging HIV prevalence across countries of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) is largely a result of poor HIV care engagement and a lack of comprehensive support for key populations. This is fostered by widespread stigma across healthcare, community, and legislative settings. DISCUSSION Throughout CEE, HIV stigma and intersectional stigma are serious obstacles to providing adequate medical care to people living with HIV. Anticipated and enacted (experienced) stigma from healthcare professionals, and fears of breaches in confidentiality, deter individuals from having an HIV test and engaging in HIV care. Furthermore, negative connotations surrounding HIV infection can lead to discrimination from family, friends, colleagues, and the public, leading to internalized stigma and depression. Key populations that have higher HIV prevalence, such as men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, transgender individuals, and sex workers, experience additional stigma and discrimination based on their behaviour and identities. This contributes to the concentrated HIV epidemics seen in these populations in many CEE countries. The stigma is exacerbated by punitive legislation that criminalizes HIV transmission and penalizes sexual orientation, drug use, gender identities, and sex work. Despite high levels of HIV stigma and intersectional stigma, there are many evidence-based interventions that have reduced stigma in other parts of the world. Here, we discuss the interventions that are currently being enacted in various countries of CEE, and we suggest additional effective, evidence-based interventions that will tackle stigma and lead to increased HIV care engagement and higher rates of viral suppression. We cover the promotion of the undetectable = untransmittable (U = U) message, stigma-reduction education and training for healthcare professionals, patient-centric approaches for testing and treatment, and advocacy for non-discriminatory legislation, policies, and practices. We also consider targeted stigma-reduction interventions that acknowledge the wider challenges faced by marginalized populations. CONCLUSIONS HIV stigma and intersectional stigma in CEE drive poor engagement with HIV testing services and care. Widespread adoption of evidence-based interventions to tackle stigma highlighted in this review will improve the quality of life of people living with HIV, improve HIV care engagement, and ultimately slow the surging HIV prevalence and concentrated epidemics occurring throughout CEE.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arian Dišković
- Croatian Association for HIV and Viral Hepatitis (HUHIV), Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Veronica Krongauz
- European Distributor Markets, Medical Department, Gilead Sciences, Uxbridge, UK
| | - Julie Newman
- HIV Strategic Implementation & Franchise, Global Medical Affairs, Gilead Sciences, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Janez Tomažič
- Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Yancheva
- Department for AIDS, Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
- Department for Infectious Diseases, Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Restall G, Ukoli P, Mehta P, Hydesmith E, Payne M. Resisting and disrupting HIV-related stigma: a photovoice study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2062. [PMID: 37864144 PMCID: PMC10590010 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16741-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The stigma associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a significant global public health concern. Health care providers and policy makers continue to struggle with understanding and implementing strategies to reduce HIV-related stigma in particular contexts and at the intersections of additional oppressions. Perspectives and direction from people living with HIV are imperative. METHODS In this project we amplified the voices of people living with HIV about their experiences of HIV-related stigma in Manitoba, Canada. We used an arts-based qualitative case study research design using photovoice and narrative interviews. Adults living with HIV participated by taking pictures that represented their stigma experiences. The photos were a catalyst for conversations about HIV and stigma during follow-up individual narrative interviews. Journaling provided opportunities for participants to reflect on their experiences of, and resistance to, stigma. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Photos, journals, and transcribed interviews were analyzed using inductive qualitative methods RESULTS: Through pictures and dialogue, participants (N = 11; 64% women) expressed the emotional and social impacts of stigmas that were created and supported by oppressive structures and interpersonal attitudes and behaviours. These experiences were compounded by intersecting forms of oppression including racism, sexism, and homophobia. Participants also relayed stories of their personal strategies and transitions toward confronting stigma. Strategies were themed as caring for oneself, caring for children and pets, reconstituting social support networks, and resisting and disrupting stigma. Participants made important recommendations for system and policy change. CONCLUSIONS These stories of oppression and resistance can inspire action to reduce HIV-related stigma. People living with HIV can consider the strategies to confront stigma that were shared in these stories. Health care providers and policy makers can take concerted actions to support peoples' transitions to resisting stigmas. They can facilitate supportive and anti-oppressive health and social service systems that address medical care as well as basic needs for food, shelter, income, and positive social and community connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayle Restall
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0T6, Canada.
| | - Patricia Ukoli
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Punam Mehta
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Hydesmith
- Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Arts, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Mike Payne
- Nine Circles Community Health Centre, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Aung S, Hardy N, Hogan J, DeLong A, Kyaw A, Tun MS, Aung KW, Kantor R. Characterization of HIV-Related Stigma in Myanmar. AIDS Behav 2023; 27:2751-2762. [PMID: 36723769 PMCID: PMC9889955 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-03998-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Characterizing HIV-related stigma and its impacts are important for interventions toward their elimination. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016 to evaluate enacted and internalized stigma among adult people living with HIV (PLWH) across four cities in Myanmar using the India Stigma Index questionnaire. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to determine differences in measured enacted and internalized stigma outcomes. Among 1,006 participants, 89% reported any stigma indicator, 47% enacted stigma, and 87% internalized stigma. In regression analysis, city and duration of illness were associated with higher enacted stigma, and younger age was associated with higher internalized stigma. Those with HIV duration > 7.4 years had mean enacted stigma nearly 2 units higher than the overall mean. Internalized stigma increased with duration of illness and leveled off at 5 years. PLWH from smaller cities experienced lower stigma. In Myanmar, nearly 90% of PLWH experience stigma, results that reflect a unique transition point.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Aung
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Ave Suite S308, 94143 San Francisco, CA United States of America
| | - Nicole Hardy
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI United States of America
| | - Joseph Hogan
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI United States of America
| | - Allison DeLong
- School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI United States of America
| | - Aung Kyaw
- National AIDS Programme, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | | | - Rami Kantor
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Brown University Alpert Medical School, Providence, RI United States of America
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Mokgatle M, Madiba S. Community Perceptions of HIV Stigma, Discriminatory Attitudes, and Disclosure Concerns: A Health Facility-Based Study in Selected Health Districts of South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6389. [PMID: 37510621 PMCID: PMC10379360 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Research data about HIV stigma perceptions and discriminatory attitudes among the general population are limited. Furthermore, the willingness of HIV-negative individuals to engage with HIV prevention and disclosure interventions has not been established in South Africa. The study investigated community perceptions of stigma as well as discriminatory attitudes towards HIV disclosure to understand if and how these perceptions might influence the uptake of disclosure interventions. This facility-based study used a validated questionnaire to measure the four constructs of HIV stigma among 670 adults recruited from health districts of two provinces of South Africa. Of these, 72% were female, 87% had ever been tested for HIV, and 31% knew someone who has HIV. Stigma towards people living with HIV (PLHIV) is widespread in the general population. A high proportion (75%) endorsed disclosure concerns, 75% perceived stigma to be common, and 56% endorsed negative statements indicating perceived stigma in communities. Fear, moral and social judgement, and rejection underlined their perceptions about PLHIV. Almost half (45.7%) were unwilling to care for family members sick with AIDS, suggesting negative distancing reactions and discriminatory attitudes towards PLHIV. The widespread discriminatory attitudes and the perceived stigma that is evident in the general population might heighten the disclosure concerns endorsed, promote non-disclosure, and increase HIV transmission. To design interventions, it is crucial to be cognisant of disclosure concerns, discriminatory attitudes, and perceived stigma evident in communities. Thus, the findings underscore the need to increase efforts to challenge and reduce community drivers of negative discriminatory attitudes and perceived stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathildah Mokgatle
- Department of Public Health, School of Health Care Sciences, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria 0204, South Africa
- School of Transdisciplinary Research and Graduate Studies, College of Graduate Studies, University of South Africa (UNISA), Muckleneuk, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Sphiwe Madiba
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Executive Deans Office, University of Limpopo, Polokwane 0700, South Africa
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Sahel-Gozin N, Loutfy M, O'Brien KK. Exploring experiences engaging in exercise from the perspectives of women living with HIV: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286542. [PMID: 37267270 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore experiences engaging in exercise from the perspectives of women living with HIV, specifically, i) nature and extent of exercise, ii) components that characterize exercise experiences, iii) facilitators and barriers, and iv) strategies for uptake and sustainability of exercise. DESIGN Qualitative descriptive study involving online semi-structured interviews. RECRUITMENT We recruited women living with HIV from a specialty hospital, community-based organization, and medical clinic in Toronto, Canada. PARTICIPANTS Ten women living with HIV who may or may not have engaged in exercise. DATA COLLECTION Using a semi-structured interview guide, we asked participants to describe their experiences with, facilitators and barriers to, and strategies to facilitate uptake of exercise. We electronically administered a demographic questionnaire to describe personal, HIV and physical activity characteristics of participants. We conducted a descriptive thematic analysis with the interview data, and descriptive analysis (medians, frequencies, percentages) of questionnaire responses. RESULTS Women characterized their experiences with exercise with six intersecting components: (1) culture, (2) gender, (3) HIV-related stigma, (4) episodic nature of HIV, (5) sense of belonging, and (6) perceptions of exercise. Facilitators to exercise included: aspirations to achieve a healthy lifestyle, using exercise as a mental diversion, having an exercise companion, and receiving financial support from community-based organizations to facilitate engagement. Barriers to exercise included: limited resources (lack of mental-health support and fitness resources in the community), financial limitations, time and gym restrictions, and cold winter weather conditions. Strategies to facilitate uptake of exercise included: creating social interactions, provision of online exercise classes, raising awareness and education about exercise, and offering practical support. CONCLUSIONS Experiences with exercise among women living with HIV were characterized by intersecting personal and environmental contextual components. Results may help inform tailored implementation of exercise rehabilitation programs to enhance uptake of exercise and health outcomes among women living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Sahel-Gozin
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (IHPME), Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mona Loutfy
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (IHPME), Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kelly K O'Brien
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (IHPME), Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute (RSI), University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Lo Hog Tian JM, Watson JR, McFarland A, Parsons JA, Maunder RG, McGee A, Boni AR, Cioppa L, Ajiboye ME, Rourke SB. The cost of anticipating stigma: a longitudinal examination of HIV stigma and health. AIDS Care 2023:1-9. [PMID: 36942573 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2190575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Levels of HIV stigma remain high, however there is a limited understanding around how different types of stigma interact to impact health. This study uses data from two time points to examine how enacted and internalized stigma lead to worse health through anticipated stigma as a mediator. We recruited 341 participants in Ontario, Canada to complete the HIV Stigma Index survey at baseline (t1) from September 2018 to August 2019 and follow up (t2) approximately two years later. Mediation models were created with enacted and internalized stigma at t1 as the antecedents, anticipated stigma at t2 as the mediator, and physical health, mental health, and overall health at t2 as the outcomes. Only the model with internalized stigma (t1) as the antecedent had anticipated stigma (t2) as a significant mediator contributing to both decreased mental and overall health. This highlights the need to address internalized stigma and the potential for anticipated stigma interventions to be effective at improving the health and wellbeing of people living with HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason M Lo Hog Tian
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - James R Watson
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Abbey McFarland
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Janet A Parsons
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy and the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - A McGee
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Anthony R Boni
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lynne Cioppa
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Monisola E Ajiboye
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- International Community of Women Living with HIV, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sean B Rourke
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Robinson AK, de Almeida-Segundo DS, Pizzinato A. Body satisfaction of lesbian and bisexual Brazilian women: Indicators of self-esteem, physical appearance perfectionism, and identity processes. JOURNAL OF LESBIAN STUDIES 2022; 27:89-106. [PMID: 36484730 DOI: 10.1080/10894160.2022.2150371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This article examined the association between body satisfaction and sexual identification among lesbian and bisexual women, since these factors help to understand the cultural background of the objectification of female bodies in Latin cultures. Women who identify as lesbian (N = 239) and bisexual (N = 60) completed demographic data and measures of self-esteem, physical appearance perfectionism, lesbian and bisexual identity difficulties, and body satisfaction. We performed a three-stage hierarchical multiple regression to explore how variables relate to body satisfaction. The results suggest that self-esteem plays a key role, explaining 20.4% of the variance in body satisfaction. We discussed the psychosocial and cultural aspects involved in the relationship between the variables, and social and aesthetic pressures on women's bodies. This study contributes to discussions on psychosocial aspects associated with body satisfaction among Brazilian lesbian and bisexual women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Karina Robinson
- Postgraduate Program in Psychology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
| | | | - Adolfo Pizzinato
- Postgraduate Program in Psychology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre-RS, Brazil
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El-Sadr WM, Platt J, Bernitz M, Reyes M. Contact Tracing: Barriers and Facilitators. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:1025-1033. [PMID: 35653650 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2022.306842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Contact tracing-the process of identifying, isolating, and managing infected persons and their contacts-is a recognized public health measure for controlling the transmission of infectious diseases. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, contact tracing has received intense attention. We provide a brief overview of the history of contact tracing during several major disease outbreaks in the past century: syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections, HIV infection, tuberculosis, Ebola virus disease, and COVID-19. Our discussion on the barriers to and facilitators of contact tracing offers a perspective on societal and institutional roles and dynamics, stigma as a major barrier to effective tracing efforts, and how the nature and epidemiology of the infection itself can affect its success. We explore the evolution and adaptation of contact tracing and provide insights for future programming and research. (Am J Public Health. Published online ahead of print June 2, 2022: e1-e9. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.306842).
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafaa M El-Sadr
- Wafaa M. El-Sadr and Joey Platt are with ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Melanie Bernitz is with Columbia Health, Columbia University. Melissa Reyes is with Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
| | - Joey Platt
- Wafaa M. El-Sadr and Joey Platt are with ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Melanie Bernitz is with Columbia Health, Columbia University. Melissa Reyes is with Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
| | - Melanie Bernitz
- Wafaa M. El-Sadr and Joey Platt are with ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Melanie Bernitz is with Columbia Health, Columbia University. Melissa Reyes is with Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
| | - Melissa Reyes
- Wafaa M. El-Sadr and Joey Platt are with ICAP, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY. Melanie Bernitz is with Columbia Health, Columbia University. Melissa Reyes is with Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
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