Specific features of the spread of HIV infection among persons who inject drugs in the Republic of Tajikistan

Objective. To identify the characteristics of the spread of HIV infection, hepatitis C, and syphilis among PWID in Tajikistan for the further elaboration and improvement of prevention programs on their counteraction. Subjects and methods. The survey covered 2,200 respondents from 10,466 PWID registered in the Republic of Tajikistan. Results. The specific features of the spread of HIV infection among PWID are a lack of self- motivation for safe and healthy lifestyles, risky injecting and sexual behaviors, poor knowledge of preventive methods and measures, and insufficient HIV testing coverage. Conclusion. The results of evaluating the behavior of PWID should be kept in mind when planning preventive measures in the framework of the country’s ongoing counteraction to HIV epidemic.

HIV infection, persons who inject drugs, behavioral risk factor, testing, sentinel epidemiological surveillance, narcotic agents