Current situation and correlates of perceived stigma among people living with HIV: a cross-sectional study in China.

Addressing stigma is vital to improving the well-being of people living with HIV (PLWH). This cross-sectional study, including 3,040 PLWH across five Chinese cities (Nov 2022-Mar 2023), found 1261 (41.5%) reported perceived stigma. Medical-related stigma was most common (19.9%). Stigma prevalence was higher in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen (51.3%) than in Kunming and Nanning (32.3%). Generalized linear modeling linked stigma frequency to lower social support and caregivers' stigma; psychological impact was tied to comorbidities and caregivers' stigma. Findings call for tailored, collaborative anti-stigma interventions.