Abstract

Stigma associated with the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS has a substantial impact on public health and in particular individuals infected with HIV/AIDS. Since its discovery in 1981 the AIDS pandemic has been described as the most destructive disease to face humanity. One crucial barrier to diagnosis, subsequent successful treatment and containment of HIV is the role that stigma plays in different cultures and regions. A stigma can be perceived as a mark of disgrace. Cultural beliefs and norms cause the diagnosis of HIV to become stigmatized, with the potential effect of causing an individual to become socially ostracized from society. This analysis of the stigmas associated with HIV and AIDS across different cultures and regions, found varying levels of stigma seen among under-served and under-educated populations and of the effect that different religious beliefs have on stigmatization throughout the world. Delays in diagnosis because of stigmatization can cause adverse effects on individuals as early therapy with antivirals has significant advantages over later treatments. Much of the reasoning behind these views is due to layered stigma or the association of HIV with already socially condemned practices, including sexual behaviors and drug use, as well as uninformed anxiety about the infectiousness of the virus. Cultural specific education can potentially reduce the stigma associated with diagnosis of HIV/AIDS, and in turn increase treatment and containment of HIV+ patients.