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01-06-2012 | Original Article

AIDS-Related Stigma, HIV Testing, and Transmission Risk Among Patrons of Informal Drinking Places in Cape Town, South Africa

Authors: Eileen V. Pitpitan, Ph.D., Seth C. Kalichman, Ph.D., Lisa A. Eaton, Ph.D., Demetria Cain, M.P.H., Kathleen J. Sikkema, Ph.D., Donald Skinner, Ph.D., Melissa H. Watt, Ph.D., Desiree Pieterse, M.P.H.

Published in: Annals of Behavioral Medicine | Issue 3/2012

Abstract

Background

AIDS-related stigma as a barrier to HIV testing has not been examined within the context of high at risk environments such as drinking venues. Of particular importance is whether AIDS-related stigma is associated with HIV transmission risks among people who have never been tested for HIV.

Purpose

We examined: (1) AIDS-related stigma as a barrier to testing, controlling for other potential barriers, and (2) whether stigma is associated with HIV risks among HIV-untested individuals.

Methods

We surveyed 2,572 individuals attending informal drinking establishments in Cape Town, South Africa to assess HIV testing status, AIDS-related stigma endorsement, and HIV transmission sexual risk behavior.

Results

Endorsement of AIDS-related stigma was negatively associated with HIV lifetime testing. In addition, stigma endorsement was associated with higher HIV transmission risks.

Conclusion

AIDS-related stigma must be addressed in HIV prevention campaigns across South Africa. Antistigma messages should be integrated with risk reduction counseling and testing.

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Title: AIDS-Related Stigma, HIV Testing, and Transmission Risk Among Patrons of Informal Drinking Places in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Eileen V. Pitpitan, Ph.D.
Seth C. Kalichman, Ph.D.
Lisa A. Eaton, Ph.D.
Demetria Cain, M.P.H.
Kathleen J. Sikkema, Ph.D.
Donald Skinner, Ph.D.
Melissa H. Watt, Ph.D.
Desiree Pieterse, M.P.H.
Publication date: 01-06-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Annals of Behavioral Medicine / Issue 3/2012
Print ISSN: 0883-6612
Electronic ISSN: 1532-4796
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12160-012-9346-9

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

AIDS-Related Stigma, HIV Testing, and Transmission Risk Among Patrons of Informal Drinking Places in Cape Town, South Africa

Abstract

Background

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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