The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #55040

Ruth C. White, PhD, MPH, MSW, Department of Society, Justice and Culture, Seattle University, Casey 331, 900 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98122-4340, 206-296-5351, ruthw@seattleu.edu

This paper reports findings from a 2003 study of HIV/AIDS stigma in Jamaica. HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination remains a significant challenge to prevention and treatment as it is linked to delays in testing and the initiation of treatment. Because stigma and discrimination are created and reinforced by social inequality, this study examines the intersectionality of class, gender, and ‘color’ (equivalent to race in a post-colonial black-majority context) and HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination. The study employs mixed qualitative and quantitative methods including: a) textual analysis of documented testimonials and media articles, and, b) focus group, key informant and in-depth interviews of Jamaicans with HIV/AIDS, HIV/AIDS service providers, community leaders, legal professionals, and religious leaders. Recommendations for public health and human rights strategies to reduce HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination, and increase participation in voluntary testing and counseling (VCT) and treatment services will be discussed. Cultural features such as virulent homophobia, high participation in formalized religion, stigma attached to prostitution, and the persistent perception of HIV/AIDS as a “gay disease” are strong contributors to HIV/AIDS stigma in Jamaica. Variations across class, gender and ‘color’ are related to the level of status within the society. HIV/AIDS prevention, care and support programs in Jamaica are hampered by anti-homosexual legislation. Preliminary evidence indicates that immigrant communities from high-risk areas outside the U.S. have disproportionately high rates of HIV/AIDS. This study has implications for the epidemiology, prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS in the USA, particularly in areas where there are high numbers of Jamaican immigrants.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to:
• 1. Describe at least three factors that play a role in HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination in Jamaica;
• 2. List at least three forms of HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination in Jamaica;
• 3. Articulate at least three strategies for HIV/AIDS prevention and intervention, that address the issue of stigma and discrimination;
• 4. Apply findings form this study to the understanding of HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination among other ethnic groups that may share some of the same relevant cultural features as Jamaicans.

Keywords: Culture, HIV/AIDS

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.