Perceived Stigma in People Living With HIV in Qom

Objective: This study aimed to report on perceived stigma by PLWH and factors that affect it. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 120 PLWH in Qom, Iran from November 2015 to April 2016. Persian version of Fife and Wright's scale was used to measure perceived stigma. Results: The mean score of stigma was 73.19 ± 12.23 (range: 48-97). The means of external stigma and internal stigma were 43.70 ± 8.61 (range: 19-60), and 29.49 ± 5.32 (range: 17-40), respectively. Living in a rural areas (β = 10.341, p = 0.006), unemployment status (β = 6.910, p = 0.006), and poor support from family members (β = 4.772, p = 0.028) significantly increased the level of perceived stigma. PLWH experience a considerable level of stigma in their daily life. Mass media involvement to increase public awareness and reduce HIV related stigma need be more highlighted. Conclusion: Working with the patients' families, interventions in the rural areas and workplaces, and providing social supports is necessary to minimize the HIV related stigma.