Gender differences in the experiences of HIV/AIDS-related stigma: a qualitative study in Ghana

Abstract

Globally more women have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and are more likely to be stigmatized than men, especially in male-dominant societies. Gender differences in the experience of HIV-related stigma, however, have not been extensively explored. Researchers investigate the gender differences in HIV/AIDS-related stigma experiences here. Interviews were conducted with eight HIV patients and their nine discordant family members in Ghana. Our findings include gender differences in disclosure and response to HIV/AIDS diagnosis. The negative impact of HIV-related stigma was found to be more extensive for women than for men. Our findings may be used to facilitate an awareness and understanding through which supportive interventions can be implemented.