Abstract
Stigma has been a major barrier to accessing HIV prevention, care, and treatment services. This study seeks to assess the effect of stigma on self-reported adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and self-confidence to take medication correctly among HIV-infected adults in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A descriptive cross-sectional study using both quantitative and qualitative data was carried out at Zewditu Memorial Hospital's HAART clinic. Self-reported Morisky scale was used to assess adherence to HAART, and Berger stigma scale was used to measure the level of perceived stigma. The three measures of stigma (negative self-image, concern about public attitude, and concern about disclosure) were negatively associated with self-reported adherence to HAART and with self-confidence to take medication correctly. In order to improve adherence, programs that address stigma need to be designed and implemented.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 346-362 |
Number of pages | 17 |
Journal | Journal of HIV/AIDS and Social Services |
Volume | 11 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Oct 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- HAART
- HIV/AIDS
- adherence
- self-confidence
- stigma
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Health(social science)