Youth and HIV Prevention: New Approaches Discussed in Shymkent

 

July 9, 2026

         A roundtable discussion on "The Role of Youth Health Centers in Conducting Rapid HIV Testing and Engaging Young People" was held at the Shymkent City Health Department's AIDS Prevention and Control Center.

         The meeting aimed to strengthen awareness-raising efforts among young people on HIV and sexually transmitted infection prevention, increase access to rapid testing, and foster positive attitudes toward testing.

          Participants noted that many young people avoid visiting clinics and mistakenly believe rapid testing is painful. Therefore, it was proposed to focus more on outreach efforts and implement a "green corridor" algorithm, directing visitors to the testing room immediately after registration.

          The need for daily data entry on tests performed into the medical information system, weekly monitoring of indicators, and intensified information campaigns in youth health centers and on social media were also discussed. Particular attention was proposed to be paid to informing people about the free, anonymized, confidential, and painless nature of rapid testing.

          To raise awareness among young people, participants proposed increasing the use of TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Telegram. They plan to create short videos featuring young people themselves, launch anonymous Telegram bots for consultations and testing appointments, and publish materials debunking myths about rapid testing and explaining that results can be obtained in just 15–20 minutes.

         Another initiative is to engage popular regional bloggers who can demonstrate through personal example that the procedure is simple, safe, and takes minimal time.

          Furthermore, it is proposed to change the format of youth health centers by organizing comprehensive "Check-up for Teens" programs, including specialist consultations, psychological support, and rapid HIV testing. To create a more comfortable environment, it is recommended that the centers be designed in a modern style with free Wi-Fi and comfortable waiting areas.

  1. Tileubekovna, coordinator of the Youth Health Center, emphasized that youth centers are an important link between adolescents and the healthcare system. According to her, over the past six months, 550 first-time visitors to the centers have undergone rapid testing. She noted that the main task today is to eliminate fear and stigma, making testing accessible, modern, and a common part of young people's responsible approach to their health.

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