Measures for HIV Prevention and Treatment Discussed at Thematic Briefing in the Capital

December 1, 2025

A thematic briefing dedicated to World AIDS Day was held at the Astana City Communication Service. The event was attended by Farida Tulesheva, Acting Deputy Head of the Astana Department of Public Health, and Denis Panchenko, Acting Director of the Astana Center for HIV Prevention.

The speakers highlighted positive trends — during the first ten months of 2025, the number of new HIV cases decreased by 14.7% compared with the same period last year.

According to Mr. Panchenko, HIV prevention efforts are carried out through intersectoral collaboration involving the Department of Education, the Police Department, the Penitentiary System, and civil society organizations. In addition, information and education activities have been conducted across these agencies, reaching over 8,000 employees and staff members. Updated HIV prevention strategies and methodologies have been developed, and the role of Youth Health Centers has been strengthened to ensure access to HIV testing and to expand prevention and education efforts in educational institutions. Since the beginning of the year, 143 informational events have been held in schools, colleges, and universities, and about 3,000 health workers, including staff of the penitentiary system, have received training.

Experts also noted progress in HIV diagnosis and treatment. Thanks to systematic efforts by health facilities and ongoing awareness campaigns, access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Astana has expanded.

“Antiretroviral therapy in Astana is initiated immediately after HIV diagnosis and is provided free of charge. Modern treatment allows people living with HIV to maintain a high quality of life. Due to expanded access to health services and active information campaigns, residents of the capital are more frequently getting tested and seeking timely care,” said Denis Panchenko.

Special attention is being paid to raising public awareness. Throughout these days, Astana hosts public campaigns with rapid testing, educational forums, flash mobs, round tables, competitions for school and university students, and sports events. In addition, cinemas across the capital are screening public service announcements encouraging people to know their HIV status.

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