Behaviours used by HIV-positive adolescents to prevent stigmatization in Botswana.

摘要

BACKGROUND: The increasing numbers of adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) are a compelling public health issue, and interventions are more likely to be effective if developed from the perspective of those adolescents. Despite the prevalence of HIV in Botswana, stigmatization is a common occurrence. AIM: The purpose of this paper is to report on the findings of a study undertaken to describe adolescents' perceptions in Botswana on the behaviours that HIV-positive adolescents use in dealing with stigmatization. METHOD: Four focus group discussions were held with 18 adolescents. FINDINGS: Adhering to AIDS therapies, seeking early treatment for common conditions and keeping silent about their diagnosis were the major findings of the study. CONCLUSION: The findings have implications for both policy makers and health care practitioners.