AIDSImpact.com:: - Santa Fe, USA 2011

Abstract #340 - Scaling up coverage and quality of HIV/AIDS prevention targeted to most at risk population and treatment, care and support services for people living with HIV
Authors: Presenting Author: Mr. Binod Gurung - SATHI SAMUHA
Additional Authors: Ms. Pinky Gurung,
Aim: Reduce the HIV prevalence among Injecting Drug Users (IDUs) and provide quality care and support services to people living with HIV & AIDS (PLHA).
Method / Issue: Nepal estimates 63,528 HIV infections for 2009. The epidemic in Nepal is primarily driven by most at risk population. Estimated number of hard drug users in Nepal is 46,309 (CBS, 2008) with the highest proportion being found in Kathmandu valley (17,458).The infection prevalence among injecting drug users (IDU) in Kathmandu stands at 21%, (Nepal IBBS 2009). SATHI SAMUHA (S.S) a non-governmental organization led by people who use drugs and PLHA in Kathmandu that is implementing the Global Fund project since 2009 as a sub recipient. S.S is operating through its 3 drop in centers which provides various harm reduction services along with needle/syringe exchange program (NSEP) for IDUs and 1 community care center for PLHA that provides care and support with hospital based services.
Results / Comments: Since February 2009 to 15th April 2011. S.S has been able to deliver following services: • 1432 IDU enrolled in harm reduction program (NSEP) • 264 IDU referred for HIV testing & counseling • 375 PLHA received care and support service through community care center and • 87 PLHA started anti-retroviral therapy.
Discussion: Law Enforcement agencies are the major obstacles for the smooth running and success of all harm reduction programs in the country (Nepal). Therefore, an effort to review and reform the existing drug law is anticipated from all civil society, donor agency, networks and concerned stakeholders. Treatment, care and support programs for people living with HIV & AIDS needs to be expanded in other districts of the country whereas, specific programs for Orphans and Vulnerable children immediately needed.
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