Between stigma and access: obstacles to HIV testing

Authors

  • Lucía Daniela Medeot Villegas Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Carrera de Medicina. Buenos Aires, Argentina. Author
  • Romina Leardi Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Carrera de Medicina. Buenos Aires, Argentina. Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56294/shp2025194

Keywords:

HIV, late diagnosis, stigma, perception of risk, access to healthcare

Abstract

The text addressed the late diagnosis of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) as a persistent problem at a global level, despite scientific advances in its treatment. It analysed how various psychosocial and structural factors influenced the low demand for testing, such as low risk perception, social stigma, mistrust of the health system, limited access to services and lack of adequate information. It was explained that these barriers not only affected individual health, but also compromised the prevention and control of the epidemic. Finally, it was proposed that the HIV test be integrated into routine medical check-ups as a strategy to reduce stigmatisation and improve access to timely diagnosis.

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Published

2025-05-10

How to Cite

1.
Medeot Villegas LD, Leardi R. Between stigma and access: obstacles to HIV testing. South Health and Policy [Internet]. 2025 May 10 [cited 2025 Aug. 19];4:194. Available from: https://shp.ageditor.ar/index.php/shp/article/view/194