KAZAKH SCIENTIFIC CENTER OF DERMATOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

In honor of World AIDS Day, which is observed annually on December 1, specialists from the HIV Center of Turkestan Region organized an Open Day. During the event, city residents and visitors had the opportunity to receive up-to-date information about HIV, ask questions to specialists, and undergo free testing. The main goal of the event was to raise public awareness, reduce stigma and discrimination, and promote a culture of voluntary testing. Medical professionals explained the ways HIV is transmitted, available protection methods, debunked common myths, and distributed informational materials. Everyone who wished to could take a rapid test and receive the result within a few minutes, which is an important step for early detection of the infection and timely treatment. The event attracted great interest from residents. Specialists engaged city residents and volunteers and also conducted medical consultations. Such initiatives not only increase awareness but also promote and remind people about taking responsible care of their health: knowing your status is an important step in protecting yourself and your loved ones.

On 3 December 2025, information and awareness seminars were held in the village of Shamalgan, Karasai District, for senior students of A. Bukharbaikyzy and M. Auezov schools. More than 350 adolescents took part in interactive discussions dedicated to health and safe behaviour.The main goal of the sessions was to help young people better understand how risks related to HIV infection and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) emerge, and what kind of knowledge truly protects. The format of the event was designed not only to deliver information, but also to engage students in open discussion, encourage questions, and dispel misconceptions.Specialists from the Youth Health Centre covered topics relevant and relatable to every teenager.A. Otepbergenova, gynaecologist, explained how sexual and reproductive health is formed and why it is important to take care of one’s body from school age.T. Kuzmina, dermatologist and venereologist, spoke about common sexually transmitted infections and emphasized that early access to information helps prevent serious consequences.A. Buirekbaeva, psychologist, focused on how emotions, peer pressure and stress can lead adolescents to risky decisions. She stressed the importance of being able to say “no” when necessary and seeking support from trusted adults.A. Akshalova, narcologist, discussed the effects of psychoactive substances on the adolescent body and explained how substance use increases vulnerability to infections, including HIV.The seminars demonstrated that when it comes to health, adolescents need not only facts, but also honest and open conversation. Participants actively engaged in discussions, shared their opinions, asked practical questions, and explored topics that are rarely discussed during regular school lessons.According to N. Kasymov, epidemiologist at the Regional AIDS Center:“As long as myths and stereotypes persist, young people remain at risk of misinformation about HIV. Our task is to provide them with clear, reliable knowledge they can use in real life.”The work carried out in Karasai District is part of broader efforts to create an environment where young people feel free to ask questions and seek understanding about health matters. Such meetings help adolescents become more confident, responsible, and self-aware—contributing to a healthier future for the entire community.

On 2 December, Almaty hosted the International Scientific and Practical Conference “HIV: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.”

          On December 1, information dedicated to World AIDS Day was broadcast on major media facades in Astana. The event was initiated by the Astana HIV Prevention Center with the support of the Astana Department of Internal Policy.

On World AIDS Day, 1 December, specialists from the Aktobe Regional Center for HIV Prevention organized an interactive event called the “HIV-Party” for young people, with the participation of local media figures and community leaders.Speakers included: Madi Saparov, head of the Public Foundation Our Life; Asel Arystangaliyeva, member of the Public Council of Aktobe, head of the sector of the Regional Chamber of Entrepreneurs Atameken, media trainer, journalist, and TV host; as well as Anna Kaspirova, Deputy Director, and Ainur Makhanova, infectious disease specialist at the Regional Center for HIV Prevention.The event was hosted by students of the West Kazakhstan Medical University named after M. Ospanov, representing the volunteer movement of medical students KAZMSA.According to Dinara Urazalinova, Head of the Prevention Department of the Regional Center for HIV Prevention and the event organizer:“Students and volunteers joined the discussion with our experts. Our goal was to create a dialogue between young people, media representatives, and professionals working in HIV prevention. Inviting a coordinator of a community-based organization working with people living with HIV in Aktobe helped foster an engaging discussion on stigma and discrimination.”Participants especially enjoyed the interactive quiz game “Kahoot”, which tested their knowledge about HIV.“It was great that the game was in digital format — everything was clear, accessible, and engaging! Many thanks to the organizers for the sweet prizes and gifts for the winners!” shared Saltanat, a student of the West Kazakhstan Medical University named after M. Ospanov.As Asel Arystangaliyeva noted:“There are still many misconceptions about HIV based on unreliable information. It’s important to rely only on verified sources and not hesitate to seek professional advice when needed.”Every participant had the opportunity to take a rapid HIV test.“Knowing one’s HIV status is a sign of strength, not weakness. It demonstrates responsibility for one’s own health and the health of loved ones — those who truly matter,” summarized Madi Saparov.

A football tournament among healthcare workers took place in Turkestan. The sporting event was organized in observance of 1 December — World AIDS Day. The tournament, initiated by the Turkestan Regional Center for HIV Prevention, brought together 12 teams and around 150 healthcare professionals. Throughout the competition, all teams demonstrated enthusiasm and active participation. Participants also received information on important social issues and showcased their athletic skills. Specialists from the Turkestan Regional Center for HIV Prevention noted that all teams were well prepared for the tournament. Currently, an information campaign is being conducted across the region from 10 November to 10 December. As part of HIV prevention efforts, various public awareness activities are taking place throughout the area. The winners of the tournament received certificates of recognition and commemorative gifts. The organizers expressed their intention to continue similar initiatives in the future.