Stigma,delayed treatment,and spousal notification among male patients with sexually transmitted disease in China

BACKGROUND: Stigmatization may prevent effective control of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in China. Thus, its impact needs to be studied. GOAL: The goal of the study was to explore the effect of perceived stigmatization on control of STDs. STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was conducted among males attending four STD clinics for the first time for a current STD. RESULTS: Among 406 patients, 80% felt stigmatized, 28% sought treatment only after suffering symptoms for at least 1 week, and 40% reported continuing to have sex while having symptoms. No association was observed between feelings of stigmatization and delay in seeking treatment. Among those married, 77% expressed unwillingness to notify their spouses. Patients who felt stigmatized were less likely to agree to notify their spouses (odds ratio, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.21-0.85). CONCLUSION: Policies are needed to reduce stigmatization, reduce time to treatment, and promote disclosure to sex partners.