Disclosure of HIV Positive Status: A Challenge Facing HIV Control, Alexandria, Egypt

Background: Egypt is reported to have a growing HIV epidemic especially among injecting
drug users and men who have sex with men. There is no published research studying
disclosure among those living with HIV in Egypt. The study aimed to estimate disclosure
rate, motives, barriers, consequences, and association with sexual behavior. Methods: Eighty
(80) people living with HIV -16 years old and above- were selected using a systematic
random technique from those regularly attending Alexandria National AIDS program center
for treatment supply. A designed semi-structured interview questionnaire was used to collect
data. Results: Self disclosure rate was 78.8%. Socially unaccepted behaviors associated with
HIV transmission are significantly associated with non disclosure. Seeking support was the
main motive. Sister and mother were first to disclose to (79.3%). Anger and rejection was
significantly associated with disclosure of HIV transmission through socially unaccepted
behaviors. Denial of disease was the parents’ reaction in 4.8%. Female sex workers and men
having sex with men were regretting disclosure to their sexual partners in most occasions and
usually have unprotected sex. Conclusion: Culture, traditions, and religious beliefs play an
important role in disclosure motives and consequences in Egypt. Public awareness regarding
disease nature and high risk behaviors, and encouraging screening among high risk behavior
groups should be integrated in the control program. Disclosure of HIV status and having
protected sex should be discussed with all HIV diagnosed cases irrespective of their marital
status.