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The Lao PDR has a population of 5 million, about half are
ethnic Lao and the others are from several ethnic minority
groups. The five largest ethnic minorities—the Hmong, Katang,
Khmu, Leu, and Phutai—number 1.5 million.
The extent of
HIV transmission in the Lao PDR is not yet known; a
seroprevalence survey is being planned. However, several
factors make the population vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.
The country
borders Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and Yunnan
province of the People’s Republic of China, where HIV/AIDS
prevalence rates are high. Seasonal migration to northeast
Thailand and Bangkok is large; a significant proportion of
migrants are sex workers. A recent ADB study identifies
hospitality workers, transport workers, traders, construction
workers, and migrant factory workers as vulnerable groups.
As the Lao PDR
becomes more economically integrated with neighboring
countries, its vulnerability to HIV/AIDS will increase. Two
major roads are planned to link the country to Yunnan
province, Thailand, and Viet Nam. The construction of these
roads will attract many migrant workers. After the
construction is completed, the mobility of trucks and workers
through the country will increase. Large dams for
hydroelectricity are also planned and their construction will
attract many construction workers. The country clearly faces a
substantial challenge from HIV/AIDS.
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