Living with HIV/AIDS in Balochistan: gendered stigma, social challenges and quality of life among women
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Abstract
Objective: To explore the impact of HIV/AIDS on the quality of life (QoL) of women living with HIV/AIDS in Balochistan-Pakistan, with specific focus on gender-related stigma, family dynamics, and regional disparities.
Methods: This convergent parallel mixed-methods study was conducted at provincial HIV/AIDS Control Centre, Bolan Medical College Hospital Quetta, Balochistan, between January and April 2025. Ethical approval was obtained from Institutional Review Board of Bolan University of Medical and Health Sciences, (Ref: 1067/BUMHS/25). Registered women aged ≥18 years with confirmed HIV infection were eligible. Quantitative data were collected from 150 participants using a structured questionnaire developed with reference to established HIV-specific QoL frameworks, including WHOQOL-HIV. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were applied using SPSS version-27. Qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 15 participants and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.
Results: Among 150 participants, 60.0% were unaware of HIV/AIDS before diagnosis and 78.1% had disclosed their diagnosis to family members. Increased family support after disclosure was reported by 42.0%. More than half (52.3%) reported no discrimination in public spaces, while 40.6% felt comfortable discussing their diagnosis. Significant associations were observed between awareness and knowledge of transmission routes (p<0.001), diagnosis disclosure and family behavior (p<0.001), comfort discussing diagnosis and anxiety/stress levels (p=0.010), and region and perceived sufficiency of resources (p=0.010). Qualitative analysis identified six major themes reflecting stigma, psychological distress, and social challenges.
Conclusion: Women living with HIV/AIDS experience considerable psychosocial challenges. Strengthening awareness, reducing stigma, and improving psychosocial and family‑centered support are essential to improve their lived experiences.
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