HIV PREVALENCE AMONG NEPALESE MIGRANT WORKER WORKING IN NEPAL AND INDIAN CITIES

Authors

  • Dipesh L Gurubacharya STI / AIDS Counseling and Training Service (SACTS), Kathmandu, Nepal P.O. Box: 7314, Kathmandu, Nepal.
  • V L Gurubacharya STI / AIDS Counseling and Training Service (SACTS), Kathmandu, Nepal P.O. Box: 7314, Kathmandu, Nepal.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31729/jnma.551

Abstract

Several studies have shown an association between mobility and HIV infection. In this study, we examined
the prevalence of HIV infection among migrant workers working in Nepal and Indian cities. A representative
sample of 316 migrant men (210 internal migrants and 106 external migrants) were interviewed and tested
for HIV infection during September 2001 to June 2003. HIV prevalence among migrants within Nepal was
2.3% as compared to 8.5% among migrants to India. 60% of migrants within Nepal and 85% of migrants
to India have visited female sex workers. 75% of migrants within Nepal used condom while visiting female
sex workers in comparision to only 10% of migrants to India. We also found limited access to HIV information
service for migrant workers to India as compared to migrants within Nepal. Considering the high HIV
prevalence and risky behaviours regarding HIV/AIDS among external migrants as compared to internal
migrants, comprehensive HIV prevention programme is necessary for migrant workers going to work in
India before they migrate.
Key Words: HIV / AIDS, migration, sexual behaviours, Nepal, India.

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Published

2004-07-01

How to Cite

Gurubacharya, D. L., & Gurubacharya, V. L. (2004). HIV PREVALENCE AMONG NEPALESE MIGRANT WORKER WORKING IN NEPAL AND INDIAN CITIES. Journal of Nepal Medical Association, 43(154). https://doi.org/10.31729/jnma.551

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Original Article