Risk factors associated with pelvic inflammatory disease
I Simms1, J M Stephenson, H Mallinson
1Health Protection Agency Centre for Infections, 61 Colindale Avenue, London NW9 5EQ, UK. ian.simms@hpa.org.uk
Sexually Transmitted Infections
|August 12, 2006
Summary
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) risk factors include young age, early sexual debut, and a history of sexually transmitted diseases. Many PID cases are idiopathic, necessitating broader prevention strategies beyond chlamydia screening.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive health
- Infectious diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a significant reproductive health concern.
- Current prevention strategies primarily focus on Chlamydia trachomatis screening.
- Understanding diverse risk factors is crucial for effective PID management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify demographic, behavioral, and etiological factors associated with PID.
- To compare risk factors using different control groups.
- To inform comprehensive PID prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study design was employed.
- 381 participants (140 cases, 241 controls) were recruited.
- Data collected included demographic, behavioral, and infectious agent information.
Main Results:
- Younger age (<25 years), early sexual debut (<20 or <15 years), non-white ethnicity, nulliparity, and a history of STDs were associated with increased PID risk.
- Exposure to Chlamydia trachomatis was a significant risk factor.
- A substantial proportion (64%) of PID cases were idiopathic, with no identified infectious agent.
Conclusions:
- A significant number of PID cases lack identifiable infectious causes.
- Current PID control strategies focusing solely on chlamydial screening are insufficient.
- Behavioral modifications and addressing modifiable risk factors are essential for primary PID prevention.
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