Experiences of Migrants Living with HIV from HIV-Endemic Sub-Saharan African Countries: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Research Studies

J Immigr Minor Health. 2023 Feb;25(1):219-231. doi: 10.1007/s10903-022-01340-w. Epub 2022 Mar 9.

Abstract

The aim of this qualitative systematic review was to explore the experiences of migrants living with HIV from HIV endemic sub-Saharan African countries who migrated to high-income countries. In this systematic review of qualitative research studies, we focused on the experiences of migrants living with HIV and the intersections between living with HIV, migration, settlement, culture, race relations, access to health services and HIV care, treatment, and support during migration and settlement in a new host country. We searched 12 electronic databases from database inception for English-language publications. A thematic analysis of qualitative studies [n = 10] was conducted. Complexities exist across the migration and settlement trajectories of migrants living with HIV, which influenced people's level of engagement in the HIV care cascade as well as social determinants of health and social wellbeing.

Keywords: HIV; High-income countries; Migrant health; Stigma; Sub-Saharan Africa; Systematic review.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Africa South of the Sahara
  • HIV Infections* / epidemiology
  • Health Services
  • Humans
  • Qualitative Research
  • Transients and Migrants*