Stigmatization among methadone maintenance treatment patients in mountainous areas in northern Vietnam

Stigma and discrimination may adversely affect the benefits of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) for drug users, especially in disadvantaged settings. This study assessed stigma and discrimination against MMT patients in the mountainous and rural areas in Vietnam and explored their associated fa...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Harm reduction journal 2017-01, Vol.14 (1), p.1-1, Article 1
Main Authors: Van Nguyen, Hung, Nguyen, Huong Lan Thi, Mai, Hue Thi, Le, Hai Quan, Tran, Bach Xuan, Hoang, Canh Dinh, Le, Huong Thi, Nguyen, Cuong Tat, Tran, Tho Dinh, Latkin, Carl A, Vu, Thuc Minh Thi
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome
Adult
AIDS
Attitude to Health
Cross-Sectional Studies
Drug use
Female
Harm reduction
Health Status
HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus
Humans
Male
Methadone
Methadone - therapeutic use
Needle exchange programs
Opiate Substitution Treatment - psychology
Social Stigma
Socioeconomic Factors
Stereotyping
Substance Abuse, Intravenous - psychology
Substance Abuse, Intravenous - rehabilitation
Vietnam
Vulnerable Populations - psychology
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Summary:Stigma and discrimination may adversely affect the benefits of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) for drug users, especially in disadvantaged settings. This study assessed stigma and discrimination against MMT patients in the mountainous and rural areas in Vietnam and explored their associated factors to inform implementation strategies. We interviewed 241 MMT patients in two clinics: one in Tuyen Quang Province's inner city and the other in Son Duong District, to assess stigma and discrimination that patients perceived and experienced. Socioeconomic status, health behaviors, health status, and history of drug abuse were examined. Multivariate linear and logistic regression models were used to explore factors associated with stigma and discrimination. The majority of respondents reported experiencing stigma and discrimination including blame/judgment (95.1%), shame (95.1%), disclosure (71.4%), and the fear of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission by others (74.1%). Unemployed patients were more likely to experience discrimination (Coef = -1.18, 95% CI = -1.87; -0.89). Those who were taking an antiretroviral were more likely to disclose their health status (Coef = 2.27, 95% CI = 0.6; 3.94). In addition, a higher likelihood of being blamed/judged and shamed was associated with those who suffered from anxiety/depression (Coef = 1.59, 95% CI = 0.24; 2.93 and Coef = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.36; 1.79, respectively). MMT patients in these mountainous areas perceived high levels of stigma and discrimination which were associated with mental health disorders, unemployment, and HIV infection. These findings highlighted the importance of reducing drug use and HIV-related stigma against high-risk populations. Besides, psychosocial and familial supports, as well as job referrals, also play crucial roles in terms of promoting quality of life among MMT patients.
ISSN:1477-7517
1477-7517
DOI:10.1186/s12954-016-0127-9