AIDS stigma drives HIV in India

[Guest guest]

I think this is very true. Over the years. stigma has not reduced significantly

enough for PLHIVs to access care. This stigma is high at all levels, including

care providers.

Reduction of stigma can only be done by continuous awareness to general

populations; focused counselling to PLHIVs and their families and zero tolerance

for care providers who discriminate and stigmatise.

The current design of the prevention and care programs do not have scope to

address stigma and discrimination- they are either very targeted on prevention

services to target HRG individuals not taking into account the human being

involved; medical care services to PLHIVs -and very little emphasis on regular

individual counselling (left to ICTC counsellors and DLN peers).

Unfortunately, there isn't much scope to address stigma form the general

community. Hoardings, TV ads and other mass media efforts including Red Ribbon

express are commendable but not enough.

Efforts must be through the implementation programs and not through IEC

departments.

 

It would be good to know more about the innovative projects highlighted - all of

us can learn from them.

 

Dr. Maya Mascarenhas

MYRADA

e-mail: <mayahiv@...>