Transcript stigma bucharest

HIV Related Stigma and
discrimination: a
patients perspective
Jane Bruton and
Robert
Stigma
“…If we do not appreciate the nature and
impact of stigma, none of our interventions
can begin to be successful. AIDS is probably
the most stigmatised disease in history.”
Edwin Cameron
Legislating an epidemic: the challenge of HIV/AIDS in the workplace.
2007. ILO
What is HIV related stigma?
Beliefs and attitudes that deeply
discredit and devalue a person or group
because of an association with HIV
What is HIV related discrimination?
Actions or omissions that harm or deny
services or entitlements to stigmatised
individuals
Stigma and discrimination are a
violation of human rights and
undermine the public health
effort to tackle HIV and AIDS
Keys causes of stigma
• Lack of awareness and knowledge of stigma and
discrimination and its harmful effects
• Fear of acquiring HIV through everyday contact
due to misconceptions around HIV transmission
• Values that link people with HIV with behaviour
that is considered improper or immoral
It’s worth noting…..
• Stigmatising illness is not unusual – leprosy, TB,
mental health
• Beliefs about danger and pollution are often used
as a form of social control
• Attaching dirt and infection risk to social groups
is a common political strategy - Jews in the 1930’s,
Tutsi 1990’s
• Stigma by association is a powerful force.
Outcome of stigma
• Reluctance to test
• Reluctance to disclose
• Less likely to access treatment, care or
support
• Less likely to adopt preventative behaviour
or access preventative services
An interview with Robert
What can nurses do?
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Everyone responsible for fighting stigma
Role modelling
Share learning
Talk openly about HIV/AIDS without offending
Facilitate discussion
Avoid stigmatising words
Challenge stigma