What is Stigma?

stig·ma

ˈstiɡmə/

noun

1. 1.

a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.

"the stigma of having gone to prison will always be with me"

synonyms:

shame, disgrace, dishonor, ignominy, opprobrium, humiliation, (bad) reputation

"the stigma of bankruptcy"

There is a cyclical relationship between stigma and HIV; people who experience stigma and discrimination are marginalised and made more vulnerable to HIV, while those living with HIV are more vulnerable to experiencing stigma and discrimination.
Myths and misinformation increase the stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV and AIDS.
Roughly one in eight people living with HIV is being denied health services because of stigma and discrimination.
Adopting a human rights approach to HIV and AIDS is in the best interests of public health and is key to eradicating stigma and discrimination.

Language

Person living with HIV
Died of AIDS-related illness, AIDS-related complications or end stage HIV
HIV (AIDS is a diagnosis not a virus it cannot be transmitted)
There is no medical definition for this phrase, simply use the term AIDS, or Stage 3 HIV.
This is redundant use HIV
Person living with HIV (never use the term “infected” when referring to a person)
Children orphaned by loss of parents or guardians who died of AIDS related complications
Mother living with HIV
Vertical transmission, perinatal transmission
HIV test
An AIDS diagnosis, developed AIDS, to contract HIV
Adherent
Sex worker, sale of sexual services
This is a value judgment and should be avoided. Use - Having multiple partners
Condomless sex with PrEP, Condomless Sex without PrEP