The effect of stigmatization on quality of life in male patients with HIV/AIDS

Objective: Stigmatization is a risk factor affecting quality of life in HIV/AIDS patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between stigmatization and quality of life in HIV/AIDS patients. Methods: Fifty patients who were diagnosed with HIV/AIDS at least three months ago in the Infectious Diseasesand Clinica lMicrobiology Policlinic of SBU Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital were included in the study. Sociodemographic Data Form, HIV/AIDS Stigma Scale (HADS-H) and Short Form-36 (SF-36) Quality of Life Scale were applied to the patients. Results: A negative correlation was found between HADS-H negative self-perception subscale scores and all SF-36 subscale scores. In the regression analysis, negative self-perception subscale was found to be a predictor of SF-36 physical function, general health, vitality, socialfunction, emotional role difficulty and mental health. Conclusions: Stigmatization affects quality of life negatively in HIV/AIDS patients. Our study showed that the negative effect of stigmatization on the self may impair the quality of life. [Anadolu Psikiyatri Derg 2020; 21(5.000): 499-506]