Delayed HIV testing and treatment seeking, and associated support needs among people living with HIV in Malaysia: a qualitative study

Susan C. S. Chong, Adeeba Kamarulzaman, Iskandar Azwa, Rong-Xiang Ng, Meng-Li Chong, Nishaan Raman, Adam Bourne People at-risk of HIV infection in Malaysia are testing and seeking treatment late in the course of their infection, despite the availability of current and heavily subsidised therapies. The delay is due to belief of low risk of infection, perceptions of stigma and discrimination, limited health literacy, and minimal knowledge about HIV antiretroviral therapy. These jeopardise efforts to improve treatment uptake and engagement with biomedical prevention and care technologies.
Source: Sexual Health - Category: Sexual Medicine Authors: Source Type: research