Risk factors for Chlamydia trachomatis infection in 6810 young women attending family planning clinics
Ramstedt, K.; Forssman, L.; Giesecke, J.; Granath, F.
International Journal of Std and Aids 3(2): 117-122
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0956-4624 PMID: 1571382 DOI: 10.1177/095646249200300208Document Number: 318772
Screening programs are important for the control of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection, a disease spread mainly by asymptomatic carriers. Risk factors for CT infection were assessed in 6810 consecutive asymptomatic young women seeking contraceptive advice. All women filled in a questionnaire and were offered CT testing. Of the 5785 who consented to testing, 425 (7.3%) were CT culture positive. 4 variables were significantly related to increased risk of being infected; ages 18-23 years, duration of present relationship 1 year, nonuse of condoms, and a history of not having had a previous genital infection. It is not possible to devise screening criteria that would effectively identify women at high risk. Therefore, a screening program should target all sexually active young people. However, if after some years the program succeeds in lowering general CT prevalence, these factors may be important when selecting patients for CT testing.