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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
09:11
A Human Fallopian Tube Model for Investigation of C. trachomatis Infections
Published on: August 11, 2012
Should asymptomatic patients be tested for Chlamydia trachomatis in general practice?
H Buhaug1, F E Skjeldestad, L E Halvorsen
1Department of Community Medicine, University of Trondheim.
Summary
Routine screening for Chlamydia trachomatis in young women during gynecological exams is cost-effective for preventing pelvic inflammatory disease. However, routine testing is not cost-effective for older women, and repeat tests should occur at least every two years.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Economics
Background:
- Chlamydial genital infections pose significant health risks, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and ectopic pregnancy.
- Routine screening for Chlamydia trachomatis during gynecological examinations is proposed as a preventive strategy.
- The cost-effectiveness of such screening in general practice settings requires thorough evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of routine Chlamydia trachomatis testing in general practice.
- To model the impact of routine testing and treatment on future rates of PID, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy.
- To determine optimal screening intervals for Chlamydia trachomatis.
Main Methods:
- An epidemiological model was employed to simulate the effects of routine screening and treatment.
- Cost-benefit analysis was conducted, estimating testing/treatment costs against savings from prevented morbidity.
- The study population comprised asymptomatic women aged 18-24 years and older women in a general practice setting.
Main Results:
- Routine Chlamydia trachomatis testing was found to be cost-effective for asymptomatic women aged 18-24 years.
- Routine testing was not cost-effective for older women in the general practice population.
- A minimum interval of two years between repeat tests was suggested.
Conclusions:
- Targeted routine screening for Chlamydia trachomatis in young, asymptomatic women is a cost-effective public health intervention.
- Screening strategies for older women should be reconsidered due to a lack of cost-effectiveness.
- Optimizing screening frequency is crucial for maximizing the economic benefits of Chlamydia trachomatis control programs.
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