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REVIEW
Contents Vol 8(2)

Unveiling the hidden epidemic: a review of stigma associated with sexually transmissible infections

Julia E. Hood A B and Allison L. Friedman A
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Division of STD Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, N.E, Mailstop E-44, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.

B Corresponding author. Email: Ibo4@cdc.gov

Sexual Health 8(2) 159-170 https://doi.org/10.1071/SH10070
Submitted: 12 June 2010  Accepted: 24 August 2010   Published: 18 May 2011

Abstract

Stigma has long accompanied sexually transmissible infections (STI) and hindered prevention and control efforts. It not only acts as a formidable barrier to STI testing, treatment and disclosure, but has a multitude of consequences for the health and quality of life of infected individuals. This review summarises the literature related to STI stigma and offers practical approaches to counter STI-associated stigma through multi-level efforts. Specifically, it describes the key sources that breed and perpetuate stigma, outlines how STI-associated stigma has been conceptualised and measured in the literature, documents the impact of stigma on infected and uninfected individuals, and summarises the stigma reduction strategies recommended in the literature. Gaps in the literature are identified and areas for further research are suggested, along with practical strategies for moving forward.

Graphical Abstract Image

Additional keywords: literature review, sexual health, sexually transmitted diseases.


References


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[5] Fortenberry JD,  McFarlane M,  Bleakley A,  Bull S,  Fishbein M,  Grimley DM, et al. Relationships of stigma and shame to gonorrhea and HIV screening. Am J Public Health 2002; 92 378–81.
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[89] Cullins V . Clinical & community outreach: The PPFA perspective. Panel presented at the National Conference on Health Communication, Marketing, and Media; Atlanta, GA, August 2010. Available online at: http://cdc.confex.com/cdc/nphic10/webprogram/Paper24260.html [verified September 2010].

[90] Con H. Res. 107–111th Congress: supporting the goals and ideals of “National STD Awareness Month” (2009). H.CON.RES.107, 111th Cong. Available online at: http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=hc111-107 [verified April 2010].




A Also referred to as ‘felt’ or ‘perceived’.