The experienced positive and negative influence of HIV on quality of life of people with HIV and vulnerable to HIV

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to explore the experienced influence of HIV on the quality of life (QoL) of people living with HIV (PLHIV) and key populations who live without but are vulnerable to HIV in the Netherlands. We conducted and thematically analyzed interviews with 29 PLHIV and 13 participants from key populations without HIV (i.e., men who have sex with men). PLHIV and key populations shared positive meaningful experiences regarding HIV, i.e., feeling grateful for ART, life, and the availability of PrEP, being loved and supported in the light of HIV, and providing support to the community. Negative predominant experiences regarding HIV were described by both PLHIV and key populations as the negative effects of ART, challenges with regards to disclosing HIV, social stigmatization, and self-stigma. It remains important to support HIV community organizations in their efforts to reduce social stigmatization and to continue improving biomedical interventions for HIV.