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Implementation of a screening program for chlamydial infection in incarcerated adolescents
J M Risser1, W L Risser, L R Gefter
1School of Public Health, University of Texas, Houston Health Sciences Center, 77225, USA.
Background:
In collaboration with the Houston Department of Health and Human Services, the authors implemented and evaluated a urine-based chlamydia screening program in incarcerated youth in Harris County, Texas, and assessed predictor variables for infection.
Goal:
To implement and evaluate chlamydia screening in incarcerated youth.
Study Design:
The authors determined prevalence of chlamydial infection, treatment rates, and predictor variables in 589 youth and repeated the measures 6 months later in 975 additional youth.
Results:
Initially, the prevalence of infection was 9.6% in males and 28.1% in females; 88% of infected youth were treated while incarcerated. White males had a significantly lower prevalence of chlamydial infection; however, consistent condom use was not associated with a lower prevalence of chlamydia. In the 6-month assessment of chlamydia prevalence in 975 youth, prevalence and treatment rates remained high and predictor variables were similar.
Conclusion:
The authors instituted a screening program for chlamydial infection in incarcerated youth that was performing well at reassessment 6 months later.