Stigmatization: A major inhibiting factor to practice of holistic and home-based care (HBC) for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Africa

Abstract

Africa is the most populated black continent in the world. It has the largest population of youths, and is a very vibrant region. However, Africa also has the highest burden if HIV, with the most common mode of transmission being via sexual transmission. It is endemic and present in every country in Africa. Due to the public health implications of HIV/AIDS related complications, it is paramount to treat the infected patient in terms of both Primordial, Primary, Secondary and Tertiary levels of prevention. The greatest challenge faced amongst people living with HIV (PLWHA) is psychosocial, due to a high prevalence of stigmatization and discrimination. This has driven a lot of PLWHA into isolation and has inhibited them from seeking for medical care. Not seeking for medical care can lead to late presentations, more transmissions, and even death. This vice of stigmatization has also inhibited HIV patients from adhering to their medications and keeping up with their medical appointments.