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AIDS and Behavior
Published in: AIDS and Behavior 8/2015

01-08-2015 | Original Paper

Depression and Social Stigma Among MSM in Lesotho: Implications for HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention

Authors: Shauna Stahlman, Ashley Grosso, Sosthenes Ketende, Stephanie Sweitzer, Tampose Mothopeng, Noah Taruberekera, John Nkonyana, Stefan Baral

Published in: AIDS and Behavior | Issue 8/2015

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Abstract

Social stigma is common among men who have sex with men (MSM) across Sub-Saharan Africa, and may influence risks for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) via its association with depression. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 530 MSM in Lesotho accrued via respondent-driven sampling. Using generalized structural equation models we examined associations between stigma, social capital, and depression with condom use and testing positive for HIV/STIs. Depression was positively associated with social stigma experienced or perceived as a result of being MSM. In contrast, increasing levels of social cohesion were negatively associated with depression. Social stigma was associated with testing positive for HIV; however, this association did not appear to be mediated by depression or condom use. These data suggest a need for integrated HIV and mental health care that addresses stigma and discrimination and facilitates positive social support for MSM.
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Metadata
Title
Depression and Social Stigma Among MSM in Lesotho: Implications for HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention
Authors
Shauna Stahlman
Ashley Grosso
Sosthenes Ketende
Stephanie Sweitzer
Tampose Mothopeng
Noah Taruberekera
John Nkonyana
Stefan Baral
Publication date
01-08-2015
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
AIDS and Behavior / Issue 8/2015
Print ISSN: 1090-7165
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3254
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10461-015-1094-y

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