Stigma, depression and pillbox return among adults living with HIV in rural Tanzania: A prospective cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Stigma remains a major barrier to accessing HIV care. We analysed the association between stigma and failed pillbox return, and described factors associated with stigma among adults living with HIV in rural Tanzania.

Methods

From the Kilombero and Ulanga Antiretroviral Cohort we included newly diagnosed adults ≥15 years enrolled between June 2019 and September 2022 with a stigma assessment at 6-12 months and a clinical visit within 7 days. We assessed stigma using the adapted 7-item Berger questionnaire. Logistic and linear regression models were used to identify factors associated with stigma and to determine the association between stigma and depression with failed pillbox return.

Results

Among 241 participants (median age 37 years (IQR, 30-44) at enrolme

SUBMITTER: Ndege R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12497930 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature