Continuum of Care Innovations for GMT in Burma/Myanmar

Dates: January 1, 2015 – September 30, 2019 (NCE)

Principal Investigators: Chris Beyrer, Soe Naing

Co-Investigators: Stefan Baral, Emily Clouse, Andrea Wirtz, Sandra Hsu Hnin Mon, Kaung Htet Thu, Aung Zayar Paing, Zin Min Tun, Ei Khine Mon, Bill Davis, Myo Thant, Mo Mo Win, Kay Thi Aye

Description: Burma/Myanmar has a serious HIV epidemic, with low rates of HIV testing and treatment access and high disease burden among gay men, other men who have sex with men, and transgender (GMT) individuals. Using the framework of the HIV treatment cascade, the study team is working to measure and overcome barriers to HIV testing, diagnosis, and linkage to care. Specific innovations include assessing the effectiveness of HIV self-testing done in the privacy of one’s home, point-of-care CD4 testing, and the use of “peer navigators” familiar with the local health system to help those who are newly diagnosed gain access to HIV treatment and care.

Partners: Research is being conducted in partnership with the International HIV/AIDS Alliance Myanmar, 3 community-based organizations (CBOs): Lotus MSM Project; Phoenix Association; and Aye Nyein Myitta and with the National AIDS Program, the Department of Medical Research, the University of Public Health Yangon, and amfAR.

Funding Source: amfAR GMT Initiative