Factors Influencing Stigma and Inequality in Accessing Health Services for HIV/AIDS Sufferers

Abstract

AIDS is now the fourth deadliest disease worldwide. There are approximately 39.0 (33.1 - 45.7) million people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) (PLWHA) globally in 2022. The emergence of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, fear, stigma, and discrimination have also been identified as important barriers to an effective response to HIV. This study aims to further examine the factors that influence stigma and inequality in accessing health services for people with HIV/AIDS. Method: Literature review was conducted by searching and analyzing journals from the Pubmed and Schimago portals with predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Key search terms were identified using truncated words (in this case *) with words such as stigma * AND discrimination * AND/OR HIV/AIDS* AND/OR inequalities *, AND/OR*ART. Policies and regulations, socio-cultural factors, and demographics influence access to health services for HIV/AIDS sufferers. Sociocultural stigma is a major barrier for people with HIV/AIDS in accessing health services, exacerbating existing inequalities. This inequality is also influenced by demographic factors, such as remote location and low socioeconomic status. Synergy across policy, sociocultural, demographic, and health service innovation aspects is needed to overcome barriers and create inclusive and supportive access.