Perception of Societal Stigma and Discrimination Towards People Living with HIV/AIDS in Lagos, Nigeria: a Qualitative Study

INTRODUCTION: The perception of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs) on how the public feels about them could influence their willingness to seek medical care, interaction with the society and their coping strategies. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study assessed the perception and behavior of PLWHAs towards societal stigma and discrimination in Lagos, Nigeria. This was a qualitative, descriptive cross sectional study among PLWHAs from three of the three senatorial districts in Lagos State selected using simple random sampling. Six focus group discussions (FGDs), consisting of eight eligible respondents each were held using structured FGD guide. RESULTS: Collected data were analyzed using simple content analysis. About three quarter of all the discussants said life had become miserable following episodes of stigma and discrimination against their personality in public, family, health care settings and the work-place. Some had feelings of guilt and depression towards these actions. About three quarter had coped with the situation by living a low-keyed lifestyle, dissociating themselves from the public and avoiding seeking care in HIV care centers. Majority of respondents were not willing to come out to publicly discuss their positive HIV status for fear of discrimination. CONCLUSION: Discussants recommended continuous awareness campaigns about HIV to further educate the general public towards reduction of societal stigma and discrimination against PLWHAs.