Stigma and Discrimination Against HIV and TB Persist, Stakeholders Say
Summary
Stakeholders highlight ongoing stigma and discrimination against HIV and TB patients in Nepal despite advances in prevention and treatment, stressing the need for systemic change and respectful service delivery.
Key Points
- Stigma and discrimination against HIV and TB continue to be severe in Nepal despite improvements in prevention and treatment services.
- Over 34,000 individuals in Nepal are infected with HIV, with annual new infections and deaths still occurring.
- Viral load suppression remains a challenge despite progress in HIV control goals, impacting long-term treatment success.
- Service delivery faces prejudice and breaches of confidentiality, with calls for policy and social mindset changes to eliminate discrimination.
