HIV Stigma Among a National Probability Sample of Adults with Diagnosed HIV—United States, 2018–2019

Abstract

HIV stigma is a barrier to achieving the goals of the US Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative. We analyzed data from the Medical Monitoring Project (MMP) collected during 6/2018-5/2019 from 4050 US adults with diagnosed HIV. We reported national estimates of HIV stigma and assessed their associations with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Disclosure concerns and stigma related to negative public attitudes were common. Stigma was higher among younger age groups, women and transgender people, Black and Hispanic/Latino men and women, and Black and Hispanic/Latino men who have sex with men. Stigma was associated with lower antiretroviral therapy use and adherence, missed HIV care visits, and symptoms of depression or anxiety. The estimates presented provide a benchmark from which the nation can monitor its progress. The findings suggest the need for enhanced stigma-reduction efforts among specific groups and the importance of addressing stigma around disclosure and community attitudes.