Abstract

Transgender (TG) people are identified as a key population group. They are at high risk of transmitting and acquiring HIV. Stigma is vested upon them due to their gender identity. Therefore, it is essential to address those factors associated with stigma among TG to take action to minimize them. To determine the correlates of behaviour related stigma among TG in Western province. A cross sectional study with an analytical component was conducted among TG population in Western province, Sri Lanka. Fourty eligible participants were recruited for the study. Sampling method was respondent driven sampling. “Behavior related stigma Scale”, a tool developed and validated by the investigators to assess behaviour-related stigma among key populations and a separate questionnaire to assess the correlates of stigma which was also developed by the investigators were used for data collection. Correlates of behaviour-related stigma among TG were determined. Adjusted Odd’s ratios were used for the multivariate analysis. Experience of harassment ever from the society (p = 0.018, aOR = 17.2, 95% CI: 1.6 – 183.9), gaining knowledge on HIV/AIDS from their peers (p = 0.023, aOR= 0.068, 95% CI: 0.007 – 0.69_ and receiving hormone therapy for gender affirmation (p = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.9 – 31.2) were associated with high level of behaviour related stigma among TG in Western province with statistical significance. There are factors associated with behaviour related stigma among TG which can be modified. Awareness programmes needs to be conducted to the general population regarding the importance of non-harassment of TG community. Education regarding HIV/ AIDS should be done to propel including TG population.

Keywords

Behaviour Related Stigma, Transgender, Gender Identity, Western Province Sri lanka,

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