BACKGROUND: Concern about stigmatization may deter testing and early treatment for HIV. Stigma may also effect public support for HIV programs. METHODS: RDD methodology obtained a national probability sample of U.S. households that were provided internet access and Web-TV©. In September 2000, s subsample of 7,493 adults was drawn from the Knowledge Networks’ panel of 45,000 households and asked questions about HIV stigma. Telephone follow-up resulted in a cooperation rate of 78.3% and a response rate of nearly 52.2%. RESULTS: Respondents were classified as “misinformed” about HIV transmission if they reported some likelihood of acquiring HIV through sharing a glass (40.2% [95% CI: 38.8 - 41.6%]). Respondents were categorized as stigmatizing if they agreed that those who contracted HIV/AIDS through sex or drugs deserved it (18.7% [17.5 - 19.7%]). Stigmatizing responses were significantly more common among those misinformed (25.1% [23.4 - 27.4%]) than among those informed about transmission (14.0% [12.6 - 15.3%]). Logistic regression found the odds of a stigmatizing response was 1.30 [1.05 - 1.61] times higher among adults who were misinformed about transmission, and 1.73 [1.44 - 2.00] higher among those who were concerned about casual contact with an HIV-infected schoolchild, adjusting for demographic characteristics. Stigmatizing responses increased with age, and decreased with education. Males and African Americans were significantly less likely than others to give stigmatizing responses. CONCLUSIONS: Because limited knowledge of HIV transmission is associated with stigmatizing views, public education may be an important component of efforts to reduce HIV stigma.
Learning Objectives: Recognize the association between knowledge and HIV stigma Assess the potential of web-enabled internet survey methods in public health research Articulate strategies for public health education to reduce stigmatization
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Public Health Education
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Research Triangle Institute
Knowledge Networks
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.