Individual factors contributing to HIV related stigma among HIV positive youths aged 15-24 years attending the ART clinic at TASO Uganda, Entebbe, Wakiso District. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2280Keywords:
HIV related stigma, Health System Factors, Youth Living with HIV, ART Clinic ServicesAbstract
Background
The study aims to identify the individual factors contributing to HIV related stigma among HIV positive youths aged 15-24 years attending the ART clinic at TASO Uganda, Entebbe, Wakiso District.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study design employing a quantitative research method was used to collect data among HIV positive youths aged 15-24 years from a sample of 92 participants who were sampled using a consecutive sampling method. Data was collected with a structured questionnaire, coded, analysed using Microsoft Excel (2013) programs, and presented in frequency tables, graphs, and pie charts.
Results
Nearly half 40, 43.5%) of the respondents were aged between 25 and 30 years. The majority, 36 (39.1%) of the respondents reported that when stressed about their HIV status, they tend to blame themselves or someone else, while 30 (32.6%) preferred to keep to themselves. Most 48 (52.2%) of the respondents believed that HIV drugs help youths live a long and healthy life, whereas 34 (37%) said the drugs protect them from infections. A large proportion, 62 (67.4%) of the respondents had experienced emotional violence such as insults or humiliation after discovering their HIV status, while 15 (16.3%) had suffered physical violence and 10 (10.9%) sexual violence. Nearly half 40, 43.5%) of the respondents reported that they had not disclosed their HIV status to anyone, while 34 (37%) had disclosed to their parents or guardians.
Conclusion
Individual factors such as fear of disclosure, low self-esteem, and internalised stigma reduced confidence and social interaction.
Recommendations
Health authorities should conduct continuous anti-stigma campaigns through schools, religious institutions, and community gatherings to promote acceptance and correct misconceptions about HIV.
References
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Copyright (c) 2026 Brenda Kemigisha, George Masete, Hasifa Nansereko, Immaculate Prosperia Naggulu, Jane Frank Nalubega
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