Effect HIV stigma within gay communities
The recent study showed that HIV stigma within gay communities is expressed through social exclusion, ageism, rejection, violence and discrimination based on physical appearance.
Certain consequences associated with HIV included depression, feelings of isolation and high-risk behavior.
Gay men with HIV are predisposed to the mental health problems. HIV stigma increases these problems and can lead to the serious consequences for general and mental health.
Stigma and segregation influence the effectiveness of sexual health programs and onward HIV transmission. HIV stigma should have decreased with the introduction of effective therapies. However, the study showed stigmatizing and discriminatory views continue to exist among gay men themselves and their effects are detrimental to the quality of life and emotional condition of HIV-positive gay men.
This study was held within gay communities across Europe, North America and Australasia, the scientists want to understand its causes and consequences and find new ways to support gay men with HIV decreasing the influence of stigma.
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