LITERATURE REVIEW: SOCIAL STIGMA TOWARD PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS (PLWHA)

Social stigma toward People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) remains a persistent and critical public health challenge despite significant advances in HIV treatment and prevention. Stigma not only affects the psychological and social well-being of PLWHA but also hinders access to healthcare services, reduces adherence to antiretroviral therapy, and reinforces structural inequalities. The urgency of this study lies in the continued prevalence of multidimensional stigma internalized, social, and structural along with the limited integration of recent empirical evidence into context-sensitive policies and interventions. This study aims to systematically review the scope, determinants, impacts, and mitigation strategies of social stigma toward PLWHA based on contemporary scientific literature. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Articles were retrieved from PubMed and Google Scholar databases, focusing on reputable peer-reviewed publications from the last ten years. Data were analyzed using a narrative-thematic approach. The findings indicate that HIV-related stigma is strongly influenced by low levels of HIV knowledge, moral and cultural norms, gender inequality, and insufficient social support. The impacts of stigma include increased depression, social isolation, reduced quality of life, and lower engagement in healthcare services. The review also highlights that social support, psychological resilience, communitybased education, and the involvement of faith-based institutions and human rights–based policies play a crucial role in reducing stigma. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the need for comprehensive and sustainable multidimensional strategies that integrate psychosocial, cultural, and public policy approaches to effectively reduce stigma and improve the overall well-being of PLWHA. 

Published: 2026-02-27