AS CONDIÇÕES DE VIDA E TRABALHO DAS PESSOAS SOROPOSITIVAS INSERIDAS NA ASSOCIAÇÃO GRUPO AIDS, APOIO, VIDA, ESPERANÇA (AAVE), EM GOIÂNIA (2011 – 2012).

Abstract

This study analyzes the conditions of life and work of people with HIV/aids, in the Aids, Support, Life, Hope Association Group (AAVE) in Goiania. Its subject of study is the work and conditions of life of HIV-positive people, registered at AAVE in Goiânia, Goiás. It problematized the advance and struggles against the Aids epidemic in Brazil and in the world, given the stigma that this disease involves. It discusses the importance of work for the lives of HIV-positive people and the disease as an expression of social issues, the focus of the work undertaken by the AAVE group. A total of 32 duly selected subjects of both sexes participated in this study. The questions addressed socio-demographic characteristics (nationality, place of residence, schooling), time since diagnosis, perception of health conditions needed for work, type of occupation, absence from work for treatment, current income and endurance of prejudice and discrimination in the workplace due to being HIVpositive. Results show that most were born in the state of Goiás and have low levels of schooling. Most have been aware of the fact that they are HIV-positive for over sixteen years and use ARV drugs. Many have noticed an improvement in health after starting treatment and, in general, those who do not, experience certain difficulties in doing the same work after diagnosis. Absences from work are frequent and long-lasting after the disease manifests itself and people often face discrimination and prejudice. The research shows theeffects produced by the precariousness of a monthly income of a minimum wage for most subjects. Several interviewees, although receiving a disability pension or assistance from the Benefício de Prestação Continuada continue to work in order to guarantee their livelihood. This demonstrates a lack of coordination and the absence of the principle of intersetorality between the policies which make up the Social Security tripod: health, welfare and social assistance in the State.