Georgia is among the countries with low HIV/AIDS prevalence but with a high potential for the development of a widespread epidemic. From the early years of epidemic injecting drug use was the main route for HIV transmission, however, for the last two years heterosexual transmission is prevailing. According to the national HIV surveillance system, infections acquired through heterosexual contact account for 44.3% of all new HIV cases registered in 2012.

This study represents the subsequent wave of Bio-BSS surveys undertaken among FSWs since 2002. Current study was conducted in 2012 using the Time-Location Sampling (TLS) sampling technique and managed to recruit 280 FSWs in total – 160 in Tbilisi and 120 – in Batumi. The objective of the 2012 Bio-BSS was to measure the prevalence of HIV and syphilis among FSWs, to provide measurements of key HIV risk behaviours and to generate evidence for advocacy and policy-making. The study was implemented within the GFATM-funded project “Generate evidence base on progress in behavior modification among MARPs and effectiveness of preventive interventions, to inform policies and practice” by Curatio International Foundation (CIF), Center for Information and Counseling on Reproductive Health – Tanadgoma and the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health.
Published in 2013.

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