On October 26, 2024, at the CSWE conference in Kansas City, School of Social Work PhD student Daniel Abusuampeh presented a scoping review titled Stigma Against Persons with HIV/AIDS in Ghana. Collaborating with Jimin Sung from Columbia University, they mapped the existing literature on HIV/AIDS stigma in Ghana, uncovering key gaps and potential solutions to support affected individuals and caregivers.
The review highlighted how HIV-related stigma affects prevention, care, and treatment efforts. By examining the literature, they pinpointed the crucial role community-based initiatives play in reducing stigma and enhancing health outcomes for people living with HIV/AIDS in Ghana. Key takeaways included understanding stigma’s pervasive effects on health and the need for more focused research on community-driven solutions.
Through this work, Daniel and Jimin hope to inspire ongoing conversations and actionable steps to combat stigma and improve health equity in HIV/AIDS care in Ghana.