The study, conducted between 2021 and 2023, analyzed data from 480 individuals newly diagnosed with HIV across six regions of Kyrgyzstan. By comparing official HIV registry data with participants’ self-reported risk behaviors and biological markers, the researchers identified significant discrepancies in how transmission routes are classified.

Key findings show that injecting drug use and sex between men are considerably underreported in official records, while heterosexual transmission is frequently overestimated. According to the authors, these discrepancies are strongly influenced by stigma surrounding drug use and same-sex sexual practices, which affects both self-disclosure by patients and data collection by healthcare providers.

“Accurate reporting of HIV transmission routes is critical for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies,” says Nikolay. “Our findings emphasize the need for stigma-sensitive approaches and improved data collection tools to better understand and respond to the epidemic.”

The study highlights the importance of tailored HIV prevention strategies for key populations, such as people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, and sex workers. It also underscores the need for enhanced outreach and targeted interventions to address structural barriers to testing and care.

Read the full article in PLOS ONE.
You can read more about Nikolays work on his profile.