Trabalhadores/as convivendo com HIV/AIDS: interfaces entre a assistência à saúde, trabalho e previdência social

Abstract

Introduction: Some of the main difficulties and barriers faced by people living with HIV/AIDS stem from discriminatory and stigmatizing actions present throughout the social context, including in the workplace. Objective: To understand the work experiences of people living with HIV/AIDS. Methodology: This is a descriptive study with a qualitative design involving people living with HIV/AIDS who receive care at a non-governmental organization (NGO) in a municipality of the Triângulo Mineiro region, in the state of Minas Gerais. Data were collected through a socioeconomic and work-related profile form, semi-structured interviews, and a focus group meeting. Ten people participated in the study. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results: The results are presented in two articles. The first, titled “Access to Work, Health Services, and Social Benefits: Experiences of People Living with HIV/AIDS”, and the second, “Living with HIV/AIDS: Coping With Stigma and Prejudice Through Information and Support Networks. Findings from the first article revealed that, despite advances in treatment and the possibility of a good quality of life, social stigma, workplace discrimination, and the lack of preparedness among some healthcare professionals remain significant barriers for people living with the virus. Results from the second article showed that barriers such as social stigma and misinformation continue to affect treatment integrity and continuity. However, participants expressed a positive assessment of the care provided by the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), describing it as a welcoming and humanized environment, as well as highlighting the role of the philanthropic institution in promoting the deconstruction of stigma and the promotion of health. Final Considerations: The study identified overlapping dimensions marked by social stigma, prejudice, and professional unpreparedness. Nevertheless, it also pointed to positive coping strategies, such as the importance of support networks including NGOs, family support, and social support. The findings reinforce the urgency for public policies and institutional practices to advance in ways that are less procedural and more human-centered, acknowledging the complexity of living with the virus—particularly regarding employment, income, confidentiality of diagnosis, and mental health. Keywords: Occupational health. Social stigma. HIV/AIDS.