European Stigma & Discrimination Forum 2022

The European Stigma & Discrimination Forum 2022 took place on 22 October as a hybrid meeting at Glasgow Marriott Hotel in Glasgow, Scotland. 

As shown by the significant and increasing reports of cities and countries achieving the 90-90-90 targets and beyond for the majority, HIV-1 is now a treatable. In the past few years, there have been advances not only in the efficacy of medication but as importantly, improvements in their toxicity profile and ease of administration, leading to greater adherence overall resulting in positive long-term results.

However, large groups of individuals either still remain undiagnosed, or are diagnosed but do not seek care. Indeed, undiagnosed individuals form the greatest gap in our 90-90-90 targets. For there to be further improvements in our cascades of care, it is essential that these groups are targeted.

But why does this happen?
Undoubtedly, this issue has much to do with fear. Particularly the fear of testing, receiving a positive diagnosis and attending an HIV center, and the subsequent discrimination which either does or is perceived to occur.
Such fears result in unnecessary morbidity and mortality, particularly due to late diagnosis, along with an increased risk of transmission within the population.

Change is coming!
We are, however, striving to make a change and there are success stories!
Come and hear how you can challenge and be part of the solution to stigma and discrimination. Listen to stories of both success and failure from our experienced faculty.
The triumph of HIV treatment can only truly begin when we can succeed in improving testing and linkage to care. We are all beholden to take part in this challenge.

General Information 

Practical Information 

This educational activity is supported by an independent educational grant from ViiV Healthcare. ViiV Healthcare was not involved in the development of content or selection of faculty for this educational activity.

The European Stigma & Discrimination Forum 2022 is endorsed by the following societies and organizations. Their support and collaboration are key to the success of this forum.

If you would like your organization to endorse this forum, please contact Lara da Silva Miguel at Lara@amededu.com. 

Health & Safety Measures regarding COVID-19

Ensuring the health and safety of our attendees, suppliers, and staff is our absolute number one priority. In order to provide a safe conference environment, all hybrid and live events organised by Virology Education will follow the national health and safety measures of the country where the meeting is being held in. We kindly ask that all attendees carefully abide by these measures to assist us in ensuring a safe environment for all.

Our staff will be available onsite to address any questions or concerns that you might have. If you have any questions in advance, please contact the Conference Secretariat at Lara@amededu.com.

Travelling to United Kingdom

Virology Education strongly advises participants to check the government website of the United Kingdom for the latest and most accurate information about the rules regarding travel.

Travelling to United Kingdom

• For example: Please check if you have been in a country or territory that is mentioned on the Red List during the two weeks prior to your arrival in United Kingdom. Certain quarantine rules may apply.
• For example: Please be aware of the vaccine restrictions for United Kingdom. Before travelling, check that the vaccine you have received is on United Kingdom’s approved list.

What if I get ill during the event?

Should an attendee become ill or exhibit COVID-19 symptoms at any time during the event, the attendee will safely withdraw from the event venue and immediately notify the event organizer with details of other attendees which have been in close contact at the event. By registering for the event, the attendee declares, acknowledges, and accepts that they will comply with all local government requirements should they become ill or exhibit COVID-19 symptoms during the event.

Liability Waiver
Virology Education cannot guarantee that its participants, volunteers, partners, or others in attendance will not become infected with COVID-19.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, Virology Education accepts no liability for any illness, COVID-19 related or otherwise, that may subsequently be contracted after or during the event.
All participants acknowledge and agree that they are attending the event at their own risk.