OBJECTIVE : To measure the sero-prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, Hepatitis and HPV and to assess the behavioral risk factors for these infections among street children of Katmandu, Nepal.

There are an estimated 5000 children living on the streets of Nepal. They live a vulnerable existence in culture where unsafe sexual practices and intravenous drug use, the two most effective vehicles for HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis and HPV transmission, are commonplace; CMDN will thus twice test street children for these infections. Street children, however, are not recognized as a target or high risk group in any of the HIV/AIDS initiatives in Nepal. Without urgent attention and action, HIV/AIDS, which has already begun its assault on this community, is bound to flourish among Nepal’s street children, increasing their vulnerability and alienation.

The mission is to have a very scientific estimation of HIV/AIDS prevalence among the street children of Katmandu through thorough epidemiological study to bring awareness to the issue as well as help the subjects get proper counseling and treatment.