Family Perspectives on Stigma Toward Women Who Use Drugs in Tanzania

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The stigma surrounding drug use adversely affects the health and wellbeing of people who use drugs. With projected increases in drug use in Africa over the next decade, understanding public perceptions of drug use is critical. This study explores perceptions and attitudes toward illicit drug use from the viewpoint of the families of women who use drugs. In March 2019, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 19 family members of women who use drugs in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The interviews included a closed-ended survey and open-ended questions about drug use attitudes. We thematically analyzed open-ended responses and summarized survey response frequencies. Three key themes emerged: (1) disapproval and stigma regarding drug use, (2) increased stigma and social consequences for women who use drugs, and (3) empathy and a call for support and intervention. Participants viewed people who use drugs negatively, associating them with danger and criminality. Women faced harsher judgment due to cultural expectations of femininity and motherhood. Despite these negative perceptions and attitudes, participants wanted to support people who use drugs, advocating for better access to treatment. Culturally tailored, gender-sensitive interventions are essential to reduce stigma and improve outcomes for these women and their families.