High rates of migration, particularly from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, to destinations within and outside the region complicate management and measurement of the HIV epidemic. While migrants generally are considered to be a risk group for HIV and TB in Central Asia, little prevalence and risk factor data is available. Data from neighboring Russia shows higher rates of HIV and TB among migrants with more than 70% of them were lost from follow-up. Due to migrants’ mobility and lack of access to health care the rates of TB treatment completion can be lower than in the general population. Furthermore, poor temporary living conditions increase the risk of contracting TB. The prevalence of TB among migrants in Central Asia has not been studied. 

 

Reaching these itinerate workers with HIV prevention services and TB diagnosis and treatment both in their countries of origin (Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan) and in their temporary residences in Kazakhstan, remains a challenge not adequately addressed in the region. Women are put at increased risk for prostitution and drug use by the loss of family support systems due to migration of their husbands looking for work abroad. The majority of HIV infected pregnant women in Tajikistan are wives of labor migrants.