Abstract
ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to assess young people's perceptions of being offered a chlamydia screening test in United Kingdom (UK) general practice.MethodsThis is qualitative study that uses focus groups and individual interviews with young adults (age 16 – 18) to assess their views.ResultsThese young adults were a difficult group to gain access to. Two focus groups, one in a school, the other in a general practice (family practice), and 2 individual interviews were undertaken (total sample 18). Respondents were unfamiliar with Chlamydia, but broadly aware of sexually transmitted infections. General practice (family practice) was perceived as an acceptable place to deliver opportunistic screening, but participants felt that tests should not be initiated by GP receptionists. Novel delivery routes such as schools and "Pub"/Bar dispensing machines were discussed. Issues around stigma and confidentiality were also raised.ConclusionOpportunistic Chlamydia screening in UK general practice (family practic seems acceptable to young adults. While this is a difficult group to gain access to for research, attempts need to made to ensure acceptability to users of this programme.
Highlights
Chlamydia is a common, important and treatable sexually transmitted infection
Research Aim To explore the attitudes of young people towards opportunistic Chlamydia testing in general practice. This was a qualitative study using audio-taped focus groups (FG), and interviews with young people[27] The FG was led by a moderator and observer, with both making field notes during and after the group
As might be expected with the nature of the subject and the age range of the participants, the study protocol diverged from plan and we needed to use individual interviews, in addition to the planned focus groups
Summary
Chlamydia infection is asymptomatic in up to 70% of women and 50% of men and left untreated can result in pelvic inflammatory disease, leading to infertility and ectopic pregnancies in women [1]. The prevalence of Chlamydia is estimated to be up to 3% in young adults [2,3]. Young people are vulnerable to Chlamydia infection [5,6,7], with the under 25s having nearly twice the prevalence of the rest of the population. Chlamydial infection and its consequences cost the NHS in the United Kingdom (UK) in excess of £100 million annually. There is an important relationship between sexual ill health, poverty and social exclusion [8]
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