Factors associated with institutionalization of children orphaned by AIDS in a population-based survey in Porto Alegre, Brazil

Abstract

This study provides population-based data on what has become of the children of individuals dying of AIDS. Improving the quality of life and averting the institutionalization of AIDS orphans requires interventions to promote the survival of mothers living with AIDS, as well as specific interventions for child family placement. Reducing the stigma of HIV infection in children and racial discrimination present challenges in Brazil.

Aspectos psicológicos da gestação e da maternidade no contexto da infecção pelo HIV/Aids

“…Percebe-se que a problemática envolvida na infecção de mulheres pelo HIV/aids incide diretamente, muitas vezes, sobre este importante evento da vida da mulher: a maternidade. Além disso, um estudo populacional realizado em Porto Alegre demonstrou que a infecção pelo HIV/aids aumenta, de maneira preocupante, as chances de institucionalizaçãode crianças infectadas e de crianças não-infectadas tornarem-se órfãs de ambos os pais (Doring, Junior, & Stella, 2005). Esses achados apontam para a seriedade da situação e a necessidade de promover a qualidade de vida e a sobrevivência das mães portadoras do HIV/aids, bem como de intervenções que focalizem a permanência da criança na família extensa.…”

Financing the Welfare Needs of Children Affected by HIV/AIDS: The Case of Brazil

“…Using mathematical models, in 2000 Szwarcwald and co-workers estimated that 30,000 children were orphaned in Brazil due to maternal AIDS during 1987-99 (Szwarcwald et al 2000). (Doring et al 2005). While this study may not represent broader Brazilian trends, it does provide some insight into the public policy response to the welfare needs of children affected and infected with HIV in a Brazilian state with relatively high HIV/AIDS prevalence.…”

“…It is not known precisely how many AIDS orphans live in Brazil today (Doring et al 2005). Using mathematical models, in 2000 Szwarcwald and co-workers estimated that 30,000 children were orphaned in Brazil due to maternal AIDS during 1987-99 (Szwarcwald et al 2000).…”

“…Half the orphans were living with their extended families; one-quarter lived with their other parent, and another quarter lived with relatives, friends and neighbours in informal arrangements. Nearly 75 per cent of the orphans reported receiving counselling and testing for HIV, and HIV prevalence was 9 per cent among all orphans who had been tested (Doring et al 2005). …”

“…Although UNAIDS recommends avoiding institutionalisation of AIDS orphans when stable networks of families and friends are available (UNAIDS 2006b), the only study on the welfare of AIDS orphans in Brazil suggests that improving public infrastructure to address orphans' social needs might bolster existing efforts, particularly since the study reports that orphans face significant problems with social marginalisation and stigma (Doring et al 2005). Using Bolsa Família, Brazil's direct cash transfer programme for families living in abject poverty, might be an important outlet for initial outreach efforts.…”