Tuberculosis is still a significant health and economic problem in Central Asia, despite some recent progress that may be due to improvements of the overall economic situation in these countries, and partial adoption of the DOTS Strategy recommended by WHO. Over 50,000 new cases have been detected in 2003 and over 7,000 people died due to TB in the four countries studied. This study has confirmed that it is highly unlikely that these Central Asian republics will succeed in achieving the global targets for tuberculosis control in the short term, particularly with regard to case detection. In the meantime, the epidemic continues to have a serious epidemiological impact and affects the economies of these countries, which incur productivity losses and indirect costs that are estimated to range from 0.5 to 0.8 percent of GDP annually. 'Stopping Tuberculosis in Central Asia' reviews the epidemiological situation, control efforts, and financing of tuberculosis programs in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. It was based on a review of existing statistics and reports, and on consultation with key stakeholders Governments, NGOs, and donors in Central Asia. This work contributes an agenda for action to address the impending epidemiological crisis that has been posed by the sudden increase in cases of HIV/AIDS infection combined with a prevalent epidemic of TB."

HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis in Central Asia: Country Profiles is part of the World Bank Working Paper series. These papers are published to communicate the results of the Bank's ongoing research and to stimulate public discussion. The countries of Central Asia are still at the earliest stage of an HIV/AIDS epidemic. However, the region is experiencing: steep growth of new HIV cases; related epidemics of injected drug use, sexually-transmitted infections (STIs), and tuberculosis; a high percentage of youth in the total population; and low levels of knowledge about the epidemics. HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis may have devastating effects on human capital, economic development, and health system reform. To address this impending crisis, the World Bank has initiated the study of HIV/AIDS, STIs, and TB in Central Asia. This study presents country profiles that were developed to inform Bank management and other stakeholders about the main characteristics of the epidemics. The profiles cover epidemiology; strategic and regulatory frameworks; surveillance; preventive, diagnostic, and treatment activities; non-governmental and partner activities; and resources available. This report summarizes the main issues identified by this initial assessment and recommends further study and action.