ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: This study aimed to evaluate the quality of life (QoL) and its association with HIV-related stigma among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Kerman province, southeast Iran. A convenience sample of 104 PLHIV was recruited. Data on QoL were collected using the HIV/AIDS-Targeted QoL instrument. Internal and external stigma were measured using an instrument developed by UNAIDS. The average QoL score was 52.5 ( SD =13.9). In multivariable model, PLHIV who experienced higher external stigma score (B = -1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -2.6 to -1.1) and higher internal stigma score (B = -1.1; 95% CI: -1.5 to -0.6) had lower level of QoL. The low level of QoL among PLHIV in Iran indicates the need for initiatives to increase QoL among this population. Our data suggest that QoL in PLHIV could be improved by interventions aimed at reducing stigma in both community and health care settings.
