Pathways Between Intersectional Stigma and HIV Treatment Engagement Among Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) in India.

ABSTRACT: In India and other low-and-middle-income countries, little is known about how intersectional stigma affects MSM engagement in ART. Informed by the Health Stigma and Discrimination Framework, we qualitatively examined how multiple stigmas influence ART engagement among Indian MSM. We conducted 3 focus groups (N = 22) with MSM living with HIV, aged 21-58 years, in Delhi and Hyderabad to identify potential intervention targets and solutions to improve treatment outcomes. Framework analysis and techniques were used to code and analyze translated audio-recordings. Findings revealed enacted stigma, associated with HIV and MSM identity, manifested as familial shame and healthcare discrimination, inhibiting access to support, and decreasing HIV care engagement. Anticipated stigma led to worry abou

SUBMITTER: Bhutada K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10501078 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jan-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature