Screening for chlamydia in general practice

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection in young patients presenting to general practitioners and to evaluate selective screening, based on risk factors, including gender.

Methods: A cross sectional survey of 508 consecutive patients aged 18-24, presenting to six general practices and one youth clinic in Mackay, North Queensland. We screened urine for chlamydia using Ligase chain reaction.

Results: Of 508 samples, 25 were positive (5%). The only factors with increased risks of infection were attendance at a youth clinic and recent change in sexual partner. It was as high in men as in women.

Conclusion: Prevalence of chlamydia infection may be high enough to support screening of all patients aged 18-24, depending on cost effectiveness studies.