Objectives: Despite a growing HIV threat, there is no definition and characterisation of key populations KPs , who could be the major drivers of the epidemic in Turkey. We used programmatic mapping to identify locations where KPs congregate, estimate their numbers and understand their operational dynamics to develop appropriate HIV programme implementation strategies.
Within each district, hot spots were identified by interviewing key informants and a crude spot list in each district was developed. The spot validation process was led by KP members who facilitated spot access and interviews of KPs associated with that spot.
Final estimates were derived by aggregating the estimated number of KPs at all spots, which was adjusted for the proportion of KPs who visit multiple spots, and for the proportion of KPs who do not visit spots. The corresponding numbers in Ankara were FSWs 5. Each KP had unique typologies based on the way they find and interact with sex partners. MSM were mostly hidden and a higher proportion operated through internet and phone-based applications.
Night time was the peak time with Friday, Saturday and Sunday being the peak days of activity in both Δ°stanbul and Ankara. The information obtained from this study can be used to set priorities for resource allocation and provide HIV prevention services where coverage could be the highest.
Keywords: sex work; sexual and gender minorities; sexual behavior. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ. Abstract Objectives: Despite a growing HIV threat, there is no definition and characterisation of key populations KPs , who could be the major drivers of the epidemic in Turkey. Publication types Research Support, Non-U.
