Stigma, GBV threaten HIV control, Lagos agency warns
The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) warns that social stigma, discrimination, and gender-based violence are significant barriers to effective HIV prevention and treatment. The agency is calling for improved legal protections and better coordination between healthcare and social services to support affected individuals.
Why it matters
Addressing social barriers is critical for public health outcomes in regions where HIV stigma prevents patients from accessing life-saving medical care.
The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency has warned that stigma, discrimination, gender-based violence and denial of essential services could frustrate efforts to prevent and control HIV in the state.
The agency consequently called for stronger legal and rights-protection mechanisms for people living with HIV and survivors of gender-based violence.
The Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Folakemi Animashaun, made the call on Thursday at the end of a two-day Legal and Rights Protection Training for GBV focal persons, service providers and linkage officers at the Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
In a statement obtained by The PUNCH on Thursday, Animashaun said the overlap between GBV, HIV-related stigma and discrimination required coordinated intervention by government institutions, law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, community organisations and other stakeholders.
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