HIV and AIDS Stigma and Discrimination in China: Results from a National Survey

In order to combat stigma and the associated discrimination against HIV-positive people, it is important to understand the knowledge, beliefs and attitudes among groups in a country. A recent nationally representative opinion survey in China included questions on knowledge of HIV and AIDS and stigma and discrimination towards HIV-positive co-workers and family members. The paper shows remarkable consistency of views. Fully 60 percent of all respondents said that an HIV-positive co-worker should not be allowed to continue working. Regarding family members, 50 percent of respondents said they would be willing to care for a sick family member. At the same time, 44 percent of the respondents said they would want the HIV status of the family member to remain secret. Multivariage models related to stigma and discrimination against a co-worker and a family member showed little variation by background characteristics. The findings also reveal ambivalence among a substantial minority of Chinese about people living with HIV. These findings are important for the Chinese HIV and AIDS Program. This study reinforces that views held by HIV-related stigma and discrimination are pervasive and that interventions to reduce stigma and discrimination need to reach all Chinese people, particularly the majority of Chinese who live outside of China's cities.