A validated stigma scale measures decreased HIV-related stigma among men in a community-based HIV prevention services program in rural Maharashtra, India

Methods Between August 2006 and April 2007, a community HIV-related behavioural change and HIV testing services program was initiated in rural Aurangabad district, Maharashtra, to increase HIV services knowledge, reduce HIV stigma, and increase testing utilization. A questionnaire was administered to random cross-sectional samples of 400 adult men age 18-49 at Baseline and in the Post-Intervention and a separate post-Control community. Principle component factor analysis was used to develop a 14-item stigma scale. Stigma indices were calculated and dichotomized.