Research Articles

HIV stigma in faith communities in South Africa: A cross-sectional study

Published in: African Journal of AIDS Research
Volume 24 , issue 1-2 , 2025 , pages: 53–66

DOI: 10.2989/16085906.2025.2523295

Author(s): Germari Kruger North-West University, South Africa , Eduardus A. J. G van der Borght Vrije Universiteit, The Netherlands , Martha T Teijema Vrije Universiteit Medical Centre, The Netherlands , Sabine L van Elsland School of Public Health, Imperial College London, United Kingdom , Stella L. E Münninghoff Vrije Universiteit, The Netherlands , Marceline Tutu van Furth Amsterdam University Center, Emma’s Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam Institute for Infectious Diseases and Immunology, The Netherlands

Keywords: cross-sectional design , faith community , HIV stigma , quantitative , religious community , South Africa

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Abstract

Background: The role of religion and faith in the context of HIV stigma is complex. It is important to recognise the diversity of religious beliefs and practices and to work with faith communities to promote a compassionate, non-stigmatising response to HIV. This aimed to explore HIV stigma within faith communities.

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