title: HIV-related stigma in the dental setting: a qualitative study.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To explore the experiences and expectations of HIV-related stigma in dental settings.
  
  
  METHODS
  This was a cross-sectional study of 60 HIV+ adult volunteers. We conducted audio-recorded interviews; responses to four open-ended questions were analyzed qualitatively for theme and content.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Twenty-seven participants (45%) reported ever having anticipated being judged, stigmatized or treated with disrespect in a dental setting due to HIV status. Thematic response categories included concerns about: (i) receiving humane and respectful treatment, (ii) being judged or stereotyped and (iii) giving HIV to the dentist. Regarding hesitancy to visit the dentist, subjects equally endorsed fear of the dentist (35%) and concerns about confidentiality and receiving humane treatment (35%).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  HIV+ individuals encounter many fears and concerns related to dental care; fear of the dentist and concerns about confidentiality and receiving humane treatment appear to be central issues. Dental providers should be aware of and better manage these issues.
authors.affiliation: Dental Student (Y2), Ohio State University School of Dentistry, work performed at Case Western Reserve University, Department of Biological Sciences.
authors.forename: Natisha
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Patel
authors.forename: Jennifer J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Furin
authors.forename: Danae J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Willenberg
authors.forename: Nicole J
authors.initials: NJ
authors.lastname: Apollon Chirouze
authors.forename: Lance T
authors.initials: LT
authors.lastname: Vernon
mesh_terms: D001294:Attitude to Health; D003219:Confidentiality; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003710:Demography; D017742:Dental Care for Chronically Ill; D003812:Dentist-Patient Relations; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013240:Stereotyping
keywords: HIV; dental care; expectations; fears; qualitative methodology; stigma