LIVING WITH HIV: Overcoming Stigma and Being Healthy with Matthew Hodson

Around 100,000 people in the UK are living with HIV - with stigma affecting many.

75% of them say they face discrimination because of it. Why is that and what can be done about it?

In this podcast episode, journalist Angela Walker interviews Matthew Hodson, Executive Director of the charity aidsmap about the stigma surrounding HIV and what can be done to address it. Matthew shares his personal story of being diagnosed with HIV and discusses the progress that has been made in HIV treatment and life expectancy. He emphasises the importance of education and dispelling myths about HIV, as well as the need for positive role models and support for people living with HIV. The conversation also touches on the global stigma of HIV and the work of aidsmap in providing information and support.

Stigma surrounding HIV still exists, but progress has been made in terms of treatment and life expectancy.

Education and dispelling myths about HIV are crucial in addressing stigma.

Positive role models and support for people living with HIV are important in changing perceptions.

For news lovers everywhere. Join former BBC reporter and broadcast journalist Angela Walker as she engages in thought-provoking conversations with inspirational individuals about current affairs and under-reported issues. We examine stories mainstream media don’t cover: issues of social justice and campaigns that aim to improve society and the world we live in. We look at issues around government, climate change, the environment and world around us. In this podcast, we aim to shed light on important topics that often go unnoticed, providing a platform for insightful discussions with our guests.

From activists and social entrepreneurs to academics and community leaders, these individuals bring their expertise and experiences to the table. Through their stories, we explore the challenges they have overcome, their motivations, and the lessons they have learned along the way. We examine issues of social justice and campaigns that aim to improve society and the world we live in.

If you have an inquiring mind and enjoy BBC Radio 4, The Today Programme, PM, The World At One, Panorama, Despatches, documentaries and interview programmes then this is the place for you.

Visit Angela's website: https://www.angelawalkerreports.com/

Visit the AIDSMAP wesbite: https://www.aidsmap.com/
00:00 Introduction
05:15 new treatments for HIV mean you can live a long life
05:27 modern HIV treatments are simple
07:56 challenging HIV stigma
08:06 you cannot transmit HIV on the right treatment during sex
10:15 ignorance about how HIV is transmitted
12:15 people with HIV can be strong and healthy
12:33 Matthew on his gym selfies!
15:33 HIV treatment has fewer side effects now
19:06 work of Aidsmap charity
22:42 homophobic legislation
24:57 people with HIV are normal

Music: Moment of Inspiration from http://www.purple-planet.com