Key Populations
Responding to emerging epidemics among MSM and transgender people
Different studies have shown that unprotected anal sex remains a common practice among MSM. Biological data and behavioural profiles of these MARPs have not been sufficiently highlighted in the current HIV surveillance systems and research, including in different national HIV/AIDS and STI programmes.
As a consequence, prevention steps are inadequate and the burden of this disease is not commensurately addressed by resources.
A regional consultation held in Hong Kong (China) in 2009 gathered a wide range of stakeholders to focus on health sector response to the emerging HIV epidemics among MSM and transgender people.
Priority interventions in the health sector were further defined in the regional document, Priority HIV and sexual health interventions in the health sector for men who have sex with men and transgender people in the Asia-Pacific Region, which was recently published.