title: HIV disclosure in the workplace.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  As HIV is currently a chronic and manageable disease, an increasing amount of people living with HIV (PLHIV) are (again) active on the labour market. Since research on this topic is scarce, this study aimed to explore experiences of PLHIV in the workplace, especially concerning disclosure and adherence to antiretroviral therapy.
  
  
  METHODS
  A questionnaire was developed and validated in collaboration with Sensoa (Flemish expertise centre for sexual health) and participants were recruited using flyers and announcements on websites.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A total of 54 PLHIV completed the questionnaire, among whom 50 (92·6%) males. Half of the participants did not disclose their HIV status in the workplace, mostly due to being afraid of social or professional consequences. Those who disclosed, reported no changes in the workplace or even reported receiving more empathy. A minority of participants have to take antiretroviral medication at work and they reported no particular problems related to medication intake.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Despite improved solidarity and information campaigns, many PLHIV still do not disclose their HIV status in the workplace, most frequently due to fear for discrimination. More actions are warranted, as well as addressing possible self-stigma. Adherence to antiretroviral therapy in the workplace posed little or no problems.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Degroote
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Vogelaers
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Koeck
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Borms
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: De Meulemeester
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Vandijck
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001530:Belgium; D005239:Fear; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D055118:Medication Adherence; D008875:Middle Aged; D063508:Social Discrimination; D057545:Social Stigma; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014342:Truth Disclosure; D017132:Workplace
chemical_list: D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents
keywords: Disclosure,; HIV,; Work