Attitude towards HIV related stigma among adolescents living with HIV at Kitebi Health Centre III, Wakiso district. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background:  Adolescents’ attitudes toward HIV and related stigma influence their willingness to seek care and engage in treatment. Therefore, this study aims to assess the attitude towards HIV related stigma among adolescents living with HIV at Kitebi Health Centre III, Wakiso district. Methodology: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design. It consisted of adolescents aged 10 to 19 years getting their treatment at Kitebi Health Centre III. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results: The majority of adolescents in the study were aged 15–19 years, accounting for 72% (n = 20) of participants, while the remaining 28% (n = 8) were aged 10–14 years. Females were the predominant gender, comprising 60% (n = 43) of the sample, with males representing the remainder. Most adolescents had been enrolled in HIV care for over one year, with the largest group (45.2%) having been in care for more than three years. Regarding living arrangements, the majority (68.5%, n = 50) resided with their biological parents, while a smaller proportion lived with other relatives. Concerning interactions with peers living with HIV, 22 adolescents (36.7%) strongly agreed, and 26 (43.3%) agreed that they felt comfortable interacting with other HIV-positive adolescents. A smaller proportion were neutral (n = 5, 8.3%), disagreed (n = 5, 5.8%), or strongly disagreed (n = 2, 3.3%). Overall, the findings indicate that the majority of adolescents exhibited positive and supportive attitudes toward peers living with HIV, although a few remained neutral or uncertain regarding HIV as a chronic condition. Conclusion: Adolescents generally show good knowledge, positive attitudes, and supportive practices toward HIV, though internalized stigma still affects some behaviors. Recommendation:  Strengthen health education, psychosocial support, and peer-friendly services to reduce stigma and improve adherence and social engagement.