Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was first detected in the United States in the early 1980s. Since that time, people with AIDS have faced social stigmatization. Part of the stigma began when scientists did not understand how the disease was passed from person to person. Before drug treatment, AIDS often killed its victims quickly, with frightening symptoms such as muscle wasting and infections that caused sores all over the body. A lack of understanding also led many to believe that AIDS was caused by men having sex with apes. These factors, combined with fear, helped frame a social discrimination against those with AIDS. While the stigma against AIDS is less widespread today, it still remains in many communities in the United States.
Prevalence Among Gay Men
AIDS was--and is--more prevalent in the gay male community. Because many Americans have religious convictions that prohibit gay sexual activity, a prejudice was created. Others define gay people as "different" from them, also leading the way to stigmatization. Some feel that AIDS is a curse or a punishment on people of gay or those with bisexual orientation. This stigma has transferred to AIDS sufferers as a whole.
Prevalence Among Intravenous Drug Users
AIDS can be spread by unsafe intravenous (IV) drug use. This has caused many drug users and addicts to become infected. This illegal behavior, seen by many as morally corrupt, has caused additional stigma against AIDS. Those who contract the disease through IV drug use are often considered to be "getting what they deserve," adding fuel to the thought of AIDS as a punishment.
Prevalence Among Those Engaged in Risky Sex
AIDS is prevalent in the sex industry, among prostitutes, pornography actors or others who have sex for monetary gain. It can also be spread by promiscuous sex, adulterous sex and casual sex. Many Americans, because of moral or religious convictions, feel that casual sex is inappropriate. These facts have further added to the stigmatization of AIDS as a disease of "them," not us.
How to Reduce the Stigma
In March 2010, "USA Today" reported that religious organizations are attempting to end the stigma long associated with AIDS. Around 40 groups pledged to work together in this endeavor. A combination of education and compassion can help end this harmful ostracization. Explaining to others that AIDS is a medical condition that can strike anyone is a first step. Showing the same compassion extended to patients of other life-threatening illnesses is another.
