Adedotun A. Ogunbajo

Addressing multilevel stigma is pertinent to ending the AIDS epidemic. This session explored the how experience of stigma among people living with HIV and at risk for HIV affected ability to gain access to services and the associated driving factors behind stigma.

Dr. Logie’s explored the experiences of stigma among youth sexual violence survivors in a refugee settlement in Uganda. Participants narrated experiences of shame, blame, and mistreatment related to their history of experiencing sexual violence. They also had anticipated stigma for seeking HIV and sexual violence related services, especially among women. Dr. Pinto’s shared findings from a qualitative study examining among attitudes towards illustrations of same-gender relationships among formerly incarcerated heterosexual men. They found that while respondents initially held homophobic and sexist attitudes, further conversation resulted in increased understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. Dr. Conroy’s study investigated the association between HIV stigma and relationships dynamics in couples living with HIV in Malawi. They found that negative communication styles were associated with higher anticipated HIV stigma and higher sexual satisfaction and partner social support was associated with lower anticipated HIV stigma. Dr. Arinaitwe’s talk examined the association between HIV stigma, food insecurity and social support among men living with HIV in Uganda. There was a significant association between food insecurity and HIV stigma, which was moderated by social support. All presenters noted the need for a multidimensional and intersectional intervention to combat stigma, especially among groups most marginalized by HIV.

The effects of stigma are far-reaching and remain a major roadblock to achieving an AIDS-free generation and providing a judgment-free atmosphere for people living with and at risk for HIV to gain access to the necessary services. More community centered and driven interventions are needed to combat both the drivers and effects of stigma as it relates to HIV and the global community.