Investigator(s)
| WHO Technical Officer |
Lobzang Dorji World Health Organization Lobzang Dorji 
|
| Principal Investigator |
Jamyang Choden National HIV/AIDS Control Programme, Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health Jamyang Choden
|
Title(s) and abstract
| Scientific title | Mapping and Population Size Estimation of Key Population (Female Sex Workers and High-Risk Women, Men who have Sex with Men, Transgender persons) in Bhutan |
| Public title | Population Size Estimation of Key Population in Bhutan |
| Background | Reliable information on the size and distribution of key populations (KPs) is essential for effective HIV prevention, treatment, and programme planning. In Bhutan, updated population size estimates are needed to support evidence-based decision-making, efficient resource allocation, and implementation of the National HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Strategic Plan (2023–2028). This study aims to map hotspots and estimate the population size of female sex workers (FSWs), high-risk women (HRW), men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender men (TGMs), and transgender women (TGWs) in Bhutan. |
| Objectives | • To identify/update and map the hotspots which are either points for solicitation or provision of sexual services for high-risk sexual activities in specific geographies. • To profile each of the hotspots where high-risk sexual activities are going on. • To understand sex worker’s typology, operation (where, when, and how), health / HIV related services availability, needs of the KPs, any crisis or problems, etc. • To collect information to understand the mobility patterns within and outside the hotspot(s). • To validate or triangulate the estimated sizes by hotspot mapping through another alternative size estimation method in selected location(s). |
| Study Methods | A mixed-methods cross-sectional study will be conducted in selected major towns of Bhutan. The study includes three components: (1) desk review and qualitative consultations with stakeholders and KP representatives, (2) hotspot mapping and profiling using Hotspot Information Tools (HITs), and (3) capture–recapture population size estimation in Thimphu to validate and triangulate the estimates. Data will be collected through interviews with primary and secondary key informants. Information on hotspot characteristics, mobility, hotspot utilization, peak and lean operating periods, and emerging hotspot trends will also be collected. National population size estimates will be generated by extrapolating findings from the selected study sites. |
| Expected outcomes and use of results | The study is expected to generate updated evidence on the size, distribution, hotspot typologies, mobility patterns, and service access of key populations in Bhutan. The findings will support validation and updating of existing population size estimates and improve understanding of emerging hotspot dynamics, including virtual and hidden networks. The study findings will contribute to strengthening evidence-based HIV prevention and response strategies in Bhutan. The updated estimates will support programme planning, prioritization of interventions, resource allocation, service coverage estimation, target setting, and monitoring of national HIV programmes. In addition, the study will help inform future strategic plans, Global Fund proposals, and targeted interventions for key populations in Bhutan. |
| Keywords | Key population, HIV/AIDS, Female Sex Workers and High-Risk Women, Men who have Sex with Men, Transgender persons |
Research Details
| Student research | No |
| Start Date | 11-May-2026 |
| End Date | 30-Oct-2026 |
| Key Implementing Institution | National HIV/AIDS Control Programme, Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health |
| Multi-country research | No |
| Nationwide research | Yes |
| Research Domain(s) | Communicable Disease Research |
| Research field(s) | HIV/AIDS |
| Involves human subjects | Yes |
| Data Collection | Primary and secondary data |
| Proposal reviewed by other Committee | Under Review |