Stigmatization, Discrimination in the Context of Care

ProCAARE Team
2001-11-14

Read on for an overview of the discussions on stigma in HIV/AIDS care that took place on ProCAARE in preparation for the December, 2001 Chiang Mai Conference on Home and Community Care.

We have come to the end of the second theme in our structured discussion, Stigmatization, discrimination in the context of care. This theme started on 17 September and concludes today, 16 October.

The discussions commenced by stating that HIV/AIDS-related stigma seriously impedes and poses a barrier to effective care and support programmes. We know that stigma within or directed toward the affected family often poses one of the greatest challenges for those living with HIV and AIDS, as it is the most subtle and debilitating form of stigma and the hardest to address. HCC programmes provide a unique and important opportunity to devise and apply strategies to make an impact within families and help reduce stigma at this level

The Advocacy for Action on Stigma and HIV/AIDS in Africa compiled at the Regional Consultation Meeting on Stigma and HIV/AIDS in Africa from the 4 - 6 June 2001 in Dar-es-Salaam was posted to the forum. The session concluded with this statement. "All those with understanding and authority about HIV and AIDS have a responsibility, individually and collectively, to act to reduce stigma within their spheres of influence. Doing nothing contributes to the growing death toll, as well as to distress and poor quality of life for many of those directly affected. Promoting hope and acceptance is a key element in responding to stigma at all levels of society."

To read the full-text version of this summary, please visit the "Publications" section of this web site and select "SUMMARY 2: Stigmatization, Discrimination in the Context of Care."