According to new findings released by GLAAD’s State of HIV Stigma Study, 88% of those surveyed agreed that people were quick to judge those living with HIV.
Sadly, only half of Americans felt “knowledgeable about HIV,” but 90% believe that promoting prevention should be a high priority.
Although HIV is not easily transmitted, 59% agree with the stigma-reinforcing statement that it’s “important to be careful around people living with HIV to avoid catching it.” When asked about their comfort levels in several scenarios interacting with people living with HIV, 54% said they would be uncomfortable with a medical professional, 49% would be uncomfortable with a spouse and 45% would be uncomfortable with their barber or hairstylist.