The Historical and Current Role of Stigma in the Provision of HIV and AIDS Care: The Context of Ghana Essay

Introduction

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) remain a global concern to date (Taylor, 2001). Although HIV is believed to have originated from developed nations, its spread across the world was rapid. Currently, the highest number of patients infected with HIV is found in developing countries. Sub-Saharan Africa bears the greatest burden of the disease (Yeboah, 2007). Over 50 percent of people living with HIV are found in Sub-Saharan Africa (Holzemer, 2008).

The prevalence of HIV and AIDS has various implications. First, HIV infection rates have increased dramatically in Sub-Saharan Africa and many new cases of HIV have been recorded in Sub-Saharan Africa over the years. Second, the number of people affected by the AIDS epidemic has increased exponentially. The dependants and families of those infected with HIV and AIDS are the major victims.

The paper describes the historical and current role of stigma in the provision and care of people living with HIV and AIDS in the context of Ghana. Further, the paper discusses some of the main developments and current issues as well as the possible ways how to address the issues.