Global Health Research Center of Central Asia

ABOUT THE CENTER: BRIEF HISTORY

Columbia University Global Health Research Center of Central Asia, or GHRCCA, was established in 2007, and is made up of a dedicated team of faculty, students, researchers, and scientists. Its primary aim is to introduce and advance solutions to many health problems, particularly HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis, hepatitis C, substance abuse, and malnutrition. The center envisions to develop practical and scientific based solutions. GHRCCA also has a branch office in Almaty, Kazakhstan and regional representatives in Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia. Staff from New York and staff from Central Asia work closely together to achieve the mission.

More than 80 million people live in Central Asia in the five post-Soviet countries: Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. However, as Central Asia is slowly emerging into a market based economy, it struggles with many rapidly growing health problems. For instance, Central Asia has the fastest growing HIV epidemics in the world. The influx of cheap heroin along the border areas has worsened substance abuse among vulnerable populations. Many people travel across the region to find jobs, primarily to Kazakhstan. In result, there has been an increase in sex workers and, consequently, an increase in sexually transmitted diseases. Without adequate health and education services and resources, Central Asia cannot, by itself, mitigate these problems. By bringing together top experts, local and international experts, government, and universities, GHRCCA is trying to seek sustainable solutions.

MISSION AND VISION STATEMENTS

Mission

GHRCCA envisions to develop evidence-based solutions to public health and social problems by conducting research, providing education and training, and collaborating with governments to implement policies. The center is able to do this by forming partnerships with governments, universities, and non-governmental organizations.

Vision

1. Giving vulnerable populations access to health care and social welfare

2. Educating the next generation of research scientists

3. Introducing innovative curriculum through faculty and student exchanges between the university and Central Asia

CORE ACTIVITIES

Research

Project Renaissance (2008-2013)

Project SHIELD CENTRAL ASIA

Project THE SILK ROAD STUDY

Tajikistan HIV/AIDS Prevention

Women's Well Study in Mongolia

Family Centered HIV/AIDS Treatment and Care

Factors That Affect HIV Treatment Adherence Among IDUs

Prevention of Smoking substance abuse in Kazakhstan

Mental Health in Kazakhstan

Education

Training

Policy and Dissemination