Epidemiological data suggest that Nepal is still a low prevalence country in terms of HIV infection. The prevalence is less that 1% among blood donors and antenatal clinic attendees; however, the HIV prevalence is dramatically increasing among certain group of population. The dynamics of the HIV epidemic also indicate rapid increase among female sex workers (FSW), their clients, and injection drug users (IDU).

FHI/Nepal commissioned Kathmandu Female Sex Workers Sero Prevalence Study among female sex workers in Kathmandu Valley from March to August 2001 to determine the prevalence of HIV and syphilis and also to examine behavioral attitudes related to sexually transmitted diseases (STI).

As part of the study, a total of 500 female sex workers (300 street-based and 200 non-street-based) were included. After obtaining an informed consent, study leaders administered a questionnaire and collected blood samples. To see full results, download the entire report by clicking the link above.