Health 29 July 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
New Study Reveals Stigma Undermines HIV Care in Uganda
A recent study by Makerere University and the Ministry of Health indicates that stigma and discrimination remain significant barriers in Uganda's efforts to combat HIV. These social challenges discourage testing, disclosure, clinic attendance, and consistent treatment adherence. Source: https://observer.ug/news/new-study-stigma-still-keeps-many-ugandans-away-from-hiv-care
Uganda’s ambitious goal to eliminate HIV as a public health threat by 2030 faces a persistent challenge that medical treatments alone cannot overcome. A comprehensive new study reveals that stigma and discrimination continue to deter many Ugandans from engaging with crucial HIV services.
Researchers discovered that fear of judgment and social exclusion discourages individuals from getting tested, disclosing their HIV status, attending regular medical appointments, and adhering to life-saving antiretroviral therapy. Despite significant progress in expanding HIV services over the years, these deeply ingrained social attitudes pose a major obstacle to both prevention and sustained care.
“Stigma and discrimination have tremendously hindered HIV services at every step,” stated Dr. John Bosco Ddamulira, a lead investigator for the study. He elaborated that these issues limit the acceptance of prevention strategies, ongoing engagement with healthcare providers, and consistent adherence to treatment.
The research analyzed data from over 5,000 individuals living with HIV across 20 districts, alongside input from healthcare providers and community discussions. The findings highlighted that while some individuals receive support from close family after disclosing their status, discrimination remains prevalent in broader social circles.
Nearly half of the respondents (45%) reported experiencing some form of stigma or discrimination. Verbal harassment was the most common, affecting 21% of participants, followed by sexual rejection and blackmail. Worryingly, internal stigma – the negative self-perceptions individuals develop about their HIV status – was even more pervasive, with over 70% experiencing it within the past year.
While the study noted a decrease in self-blame and blaming others for HIV status compared to 2018, difficulty disclosing status and feelings of shame have significantly increased. Advocates emphasize that these findings underscore the urgent need for interventions that address the social and psychological dimensions of living with HIV, ensuring dignity and privacy within healthcare settings.
Source: theobserver.ug