"A way to liberate myself": A qualitative study of perceived benefits and risks of chemsex among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

Background: In Kazakhstan, the HIV epidemic has a significant impact on marginalized groups such as gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), exacerbated by homophobic attitudes (in society) and (resulting) minority stress. This stress often leads to coping behaviors such as chemsex - the use of synthetic stimulants to enhance sexual experiences. Our study explores the motivations and perceived risks associated with chemsex among GBMSM in Almaty.

A citizen science approach to develop a digital intervention to reduce HIV stigma and promote HIV self-testing among adolescents and young adults: a mixed methods analysis from Kazakhstan.

Introduction: Kazakhstan has one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the world, with increasing rates among adolescents and young adults (AYA). Innovative strategies are needed to increase HIV testing uptake and decrease HIV stigma among AYA. Citizen science, defined as the active engagement of the general public in scientific research tasks, promotes and facilitates community engagement throughout the research process.