Results of a Community-Based Screening Program for Chlamydia trachomatis Genital Infection in Young People Aged 18-25 Years.

Abstract

Introduction and aim Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) cases have increased in the last decade. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of CT genital infection in asymptomatic, sexually active young peopleand determine whether a community screening program would be effective in reducing the number of cases. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional studyof consecutive inclusion of asymptomatic people aged 18-25 years between September 2021 and May 2022. Community interventions in high schools, universities, and cultural events were planned to realize the screening.Sociodemographic variables of gender, age, country of origin, and educational level, as well as sexual habits, were recorded for each patient. CT was detected via urine samples. An estimate of the prevalence of CT genital infection and its 95% confidence interval (CI) was made based on the exact binomial distribution, assuming that the sample is representative of the study population. Results A total of 628 subjects participated in the study, of whom 33 had a CT infection, giving a prevalence of 5.2% (95% CI: 3.6%, 7.3%). 93.9% of subjects with CT infection were female (p≤0.019) and 85% of the participants were Spanish nationals. Among vocational training students, the prevalence was 8.1%. Having had four or more sexual partners in the last month and in the previous year was significantly associated with CT infection (p<0.001). Conclusion Screening for CT genital infection in young sexually active women should be implemented in our country, as recommended by the various guidelines.