Estimating the size of key populations at higher risk of HIV infection: a summary of experiences and lessons presented during a technical meeting on size estimation among key populations in Asian countries

Authors

  • Dongbao Yu HIV, Hepatitis and STI, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, Philippines
  • Jesus Maria Garcia Calleja HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Jinkou Zhao The Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Amala Reddy Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, Regional Support Team for Asia and the Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand
  • Nicole Seguy World Health Organization Representative Office in China, Beijing, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5365/wpsar.2014.5.2.008

Abstract

Problem: Size estimates of key populations at higher risk of HIV exposure are recognized as critical for understanding the trajectory of the HIV epidemic and planning and monitoring an effective response, especially for countries with concentrated and low epidemics such as those in Asia.

Context: To help countries estimate population sizes of key populations, global guidelines were updated in 2011 to reflect new technical developments and recent field experiences in applying these methods.

Action: In September 2013, a meeting of programme managers and experts experienced with population size estimates (PSE) for key populations was held for 13 Asian countries. This article summarizes the key results presented, shares practical lessons learnt and reviews the methodological approaches from implementing PSE in 13 countries.

Lessons learnt: It is important to build capacity to collect, analyse and use PSE data; establish a technical review group; and implement a transparent, well documented process. Countries should adapt global PSE guidelines and maintain operational definitions that are more relevant and useable for country programmes. Development of methods for non-venue-based key populations requires more investment and collaborative efforts between countries and among partners.

Author Biography

Dongbao Yu, HIV, Hepatitis and STI, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, Philippines

Epidemiologist, HIV, Hepatitis and STI Unit, Division of Combating Communicable Diseases, WHO/WPRO

Published

01-10-2014

How to Cite

1.
Yu D, Calleja JMG, Zhao J, Reddy A, Seguy N. Estimating the size of key populations at higher risk of HIV infection: a summary of experiences and lessons presented during a technical meeting on size estimation among key populations in Asian countries. Western Pac Surveill Response J [Internet]. 2014 Oct. 1 [cited 2024 Nov. 5];5(3). Available from: https://ojs.wpro.who.int/ojs/index.php/wpsar/article/view/263

Issue

Section

Lessons from the Field