The Lao, PDR, Behavior Surveillance Survey 2000-2001 is the first stage of an integrated second generation HIV surveillance system in the Lao PDR. Where the first generation of HIV surveillance collected biological data only, the second generation couples the measurement of trends in HIV risk behavior (the BSS) with HIV and STI prevalence. This system provides a more complete picture of HIV dynamics within the country than relying only on the interpretation of prevalence data, and it offers more specific information for intervention and policy planning. The National Committee for the Control of AIDS Bureau (NCCAB) in Lao PDR and its partnering governmental and international organizations established an integrated HIV surveillance system in 2000 and conducted the BSS in 2000 and 2001. HIV and STI prevalence data was collected in 2001 and is reported in the HIV Surveillance Survey and Sexually Transmitted Infection Periodic Prevalence Survey.

Five provinces including Champasak in southern Laos, Savannakhet, Khammuane and Vientiane Municipality in the central region and Luang Prabang in northern Laos were chosen for the study based on their population density, HIV case reporting, and the existence of behaviors putting some populations at risk for HIV. These provinces are the five most populous areas along Route 13, the main land transportation route of Lao PDR, and they were identified as centers for internal and cross-border mobile and migratory populations. Target groups in each province were chosen based on their size, accessibility, levels of HIV risk behavior, and mobile/migratory status. The groups included male and female cross border seasonal migrant workers, female factory workers, service women, long distance truck drivers, police and military.