The HIV epidemic has grown by 207% from 2010 to 2019, making it the fastest-growing in the Asia-Pacific region. In the same period, AIDS-related deaths rose by 338%. In 2019, it was estimated that 97,000 people were living with HIV in the Philippines, but only 73% knew about their status and only 44% were receiving antiretroviral treatment. And if projections are correct, there will be 313,100 people living with HIV in the Philippines by 2030.
According to Eamonn Murphy, UNAIDS regional director for Asia and the Pacific, we need to do more to convince those in high-risk populations to seek HIV-related services. It’s a daunting task, but we can help by addressing the main reason why people are reluctant to get tested and treated: HIV stigma. Here’s what we can do to change things.
First, understand the problem
According to the US Center for Disease Control, HIV stigma is “negative attitudes and beliefs about people with HIV.” This stigma refers to any act that treats people living with HIV as lesser beings.
Some of the common manifestations of HIV stigma include believing that only certain kinds of people get HIV, judging people who have HIV or even those who are taking steps to prevent HIV transmission, and thinking that people who get HIV deserve it.
And HIV stigma has dire consequences.
Why is stigma so dangerous?
Because of stigma, people with HIV face discrimination. They can be shunned by their community and lose their livelihood. Stigma can also be internalized by people living with HIV, leading to feelings of shame and fear.
Here’s the thing: current treatments make it possible for people with HIV to live long, fruitful lives. But because of stigma, many still hesitate to seek healthcare services or disclose their HIV status. After getting their diagnoses, some are even reluctant to take antiretroviral drugs. This leads to late diagnoses, increasing the likelihood of transmission, making treatment less effective, and even causing early death. Stigma kills.
What causes HIV stigma?
HIV stigma is rooted in fear and lack of knowledge and empathy. Even in the information age, many Filipinos still believe in outdated ideas that were rampant in the early ’80s, when HIV/AIDS was first identified.
What can you do about it? Here’s what you can do to combat HIV stigma:
Educate yourself
To combat stigma, we need to address the root of the problem, which is misinformation. And to do that, you’ll need to get your facts straight. A good place to start would be learning the answers to these questions:
- How is HIV transmitted? (And how is it NOT transmitted?)
- What are the early symptoms of HIV?
- What is the difference between HIV and AIDS?
- How is HIV prevented?
- How is HIV treated?
You can also read the articles below for more information:
Talk about it
Conversations about HIV are crucial to removing its stigma. The more we talk about it and correct misconceptions, the more the subject becomes normalized. When you witness stigma, speak up. You can also use your social media platforms to share resources and educate.
But it’s important that we’re mindful about how we talk about HIV.
Stay positive
An HIV diagnosis isn’t a death sentence. Thanks to advances in medical treatments, there are millions of people around the globe living healthy lives with HIV. By spreading a message of hope, you can help make the people around you less fearful of the virus and more likely to be proactive in its prevention and treatment.
Also, be mindful of your language. Even with the best intentions, we can still use stigmatizing terms out of habit. So learn to avoid these and choose empowering words instead. For instance, instead of using the words “victim” or “sufferer”, choose neutral language like “person with HIV” or even empowering language like “warrior” or “survivor.” For other empowering language recommendations, see this guide from The Well Project.
Show support
If someone discloses their HIV status to you, let them know that you’re available to support them. You can show support by accompanying them to their medical appointments, providing reassurance, or simply lending an ear. Ask what they need and show up.
Get involved
There are many Philippine organizations dedicated to the HIV/AIDS response. One notable organization is LoveYourself, Inc. The community-based non-profit is dedicated to creating safe spaces and making HIV resources and support more accessible to Filipinos. It has 13 community centers and clinics all over the Philippines, and over the pandemic, LoveYourself has shifted its regular operations — from testing to treatment — online.
To volunteer for LoveYourself, you can visit their website.
What are the steps you’re taking to stop HIV stigma?
