A study of HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination among former plasma donors in rural areas / 中华预防医学杂志

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To understand the types of, reasons for and sources of stigma and discrimination in a rural community where the majority of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) are former plasma donors (FPDs).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Eighty local residents, including 20 HIV-positive villagers, 20 family members, 20 villagers from non-HIV-positive households and 20 health workers, were selected as study subjects by using purposive sampling method in rural areas of Anhui Province. Face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions were held to collect information on HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination and its contributing factors.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Of the 80 study subjects, 1 didn't finish the survey. Of the 79 subjects who finished the survey, the main forms of stigma and discrimination were expanded stigma [81.0% (64/79)], abandonment and avoidance, stigma and discrimination in healthcare setting [47.4% (28/59)], loss of social support [33.3% (13/39)]. The level of stigma was less in village where were more HIV-positive villagers living and vice versa. The reasons for stigma and discrimination included ignorance or misunderstanding of HIV/AIDS [57.5% (23/40)], fear of HIV/AIDS [32.5% (13/40)] and morality judgment toward PLHA. The majority of HIV positive participants were unwilling to disclose their positive status to others in order to protect their family members and children.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Ignorance and misunderstanding of HIV/AIDS were main contributing factors to HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination and it is very important to implement appropriate intervention programs to reduce stigma and discrimination.</p>