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Abstract
Stigma and AIDS in Brazil, a comparative study
J.H. Mello1, M. Mello2
Issues:
Categorization and description of the daily sources of stigma encountered by HIV- infected people living in Brazil.
Description:
A semi-structured questionaire was used in 300 HIV-infected people under treatment in 5 of the major Brazilian Regional Centers for HIV/AIDS Treatment and Care and among members of RNP+ The Brazilian Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS as well as in 100 health care personell between August, 2004 and August, 2005. This study had the variables: demographics, family structure, social-economical profile, sexuality, treatment compliance, drug use, relationship patient-health care providers, access to health system, self perception of stigma and discrimination. 20 interviews were conducted with HIV-infected activists that have their HIV status disclosed, in order to analyse the importance of visibility and activism.
Lessons learned:
Stigma has prevented many people, specially heterosexual men (non IDU) and a parcel of gay people, from getting good treatment. Most of them have related they don´t want to go to the centers for treatment and care because they will be labled and only decide to look for treatment after having developed some serious opportunistic diseases. Some have also reported being mistreated by some health professionals by the fact they are gays or IDU (structural discrimination).
Recommendations:
Stigma related to HIV/AIDS plays an important role in the course of patient´s self image and self steem, in the access to treatment and the course of disease. Public health system should provide an integral care to HIV-infected people, including an effective psychological support program for HIV+ patients.
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
CDD0924
Suggested Citation
"J.H.Mello, et al.
Stigma and AIDS in Brazil, a comparative study.
:
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
CDD0924"
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