AIDS Care. 2025 Nov 1:1-11. doi: 10.1080/09540121.2025.2581203. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
HIV-related stigma affects the well-being and quality of life of people with HIV (PHIV). To evaluate the impact of HIV-related stigma on the quality of life among PHIV in Dar es Salaam, we conducted a qualitative study between December 2021 and June 2022. We enrolled participants in the Dar es Salaam Urban Cohort Study who were from the Ilala Municipality of Dar es Salaam. Using a semi-structured discussion guide, three focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with the 33 participants. FGDs were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. The impact of stigma on quality of life was grouped into three themes: (1) health impact manifested as failure to attend clinic as scheduled, poor adherence to medication and appetite and weight loss; (2) psychosocial impact manifested as fear, stress, depression, family instability, limited social interaction and a difficult learning environment and (3) economic impact manifested as denied employment opportunities, loss of job, denied financial support and a lack of economic support. PHIV experience stigma, which affects their economic status, health and well-being. Therefore, strengthening programmes, such as community education, awareness campaigns, peer support groups among PHIV and the establishment of microeconomic groups for PHIV may reduce stigma and improve quality of life.
PMID:41175082 | DOI:10.1080/09540121.2025.2581203
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