Baseline HIV Stigma Index Survey for St. Kitts and Nevis

Abstract

The stigma associated with AIDS is a setback for HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment. Persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH), and those that fear they might be HIV-infected, fear judgment and discrimination from within their community, and more especially from their health care services. Thus, this study seeks to establish a baseline index of the stigma level for HIV in Saint Kitts and Nevis (SKN), as well as estimate this level among local health care providers (HCP). A total of 88 participants volunteered for the study, consisting of 43 PLWH and 45 HCP. Data from the PLWH was collected by trained physicians, while the HCP collected their data via a self-administered questionnaire. The results of the study reveal that the majority of PLWH had experienced stigmatization due to their health condition, either externally or internally, or both. The study revealed deficiencies in HIV-patient counseling and possible breaches of confidentiality regarding HIV status disclosure. However, the results of the study statistically showed an occupational bias concerning potential confidentiality breaches, as none of the skilled participants had their status revealed without their permission. This differed for the semi-skilled and unskilled participants. Amongst the HCP, the study revealed both passive and active displays of HIV stigma, attributed mainly to insufficient training. The study also revealed that HCP’s perception of their work environment in terms of safety negatively impacted their interaction with the PLWH. The results of this study underline the need for active participation from the SKN Community and Government, to ensure the quality of life for PLWH, as this could have a boomeranging effect on the health of the society as a whole.