A National Mapping of Stigma Among Communities and Institutions and Its Impact on Black and Latino Gay Men/MSM

Background: In March 2011, the National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors (NASTAD) and the National Coalition of STD Directors (NCSD) received funding from the MAC AIDS Fund to mount a targeted effort across the silos of HIV and STD to examine stigma in public health practice and to address its impact on Black and Latino gay men. Recent HIV and STD data highlight the critical need to strengthen health department efforts targeting this population.  

Objectives: NASTAD and NCSDs national stigma survey targets state and local heath departments, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders with a goal of examining their perceptions of institutional and community challenges in providing appropriate HIV and STD prevention services to Black and Latino gay men/MSM.    

Methods: NASTAD and NCSD designed an online stigma survey in English and Spanish.  The survey was piloted in six states to gain feedback on format and clarity of questions. The survey was launched on December 5, 2011 and will close on January 31, 2012. The data will be analyzed using a quantitative coding process to generate overarching themes.  

Results: The survey is currently open and will close on January 31, 2012. Compiled data will be analyzed.  A data summary will be available for the 2012 National STD Prevention Conference.  

Conclusions: NASTAD and NCSD will utilize data collected from this survey to better inform state and local health departments and their partners on the impacts of stigma on public health practice.                                        

Implications for Programs, Policy, and Research: At a time where the healthcare system is being overhauled and there is a need for more medical care providers, it is important that we equip the next generation of providers and health department staff with the tools and resources required to reach those populations most vulnerable.