Improving STD testing behavior among high-risk young adults by offering STD testing at a vocational school

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Sexual Health Education

Background:

• Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is the most common bacterial STD, disproportionately affecting sexually active adolescents and young adults.
• Low STD testing rates in this demographic are linked to a lack of perceived risk and the asymptomatic nature of CT.
• Targeted interventions in accessible environments, like schools, are crucial for improving STD testing uptake.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a school-based sexual health program on STD testing behavior among vocational school students.
• To assess the impact of counseling and accessible testing facilities on CT testing rates.
• To identify determinants of CT testing behavior in a high-risk adolescent population.

Main Methods:

• A sexual health education program was implemented in a vocational school, including questionnaires on CT risk and STD testing.
• Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to examine differences in STD-related risk behavior and testing determinants between genders.
• Self-administered specimens were offered for STD testing to assess uptake and prevalence.

Main Results:

• Of 345 participants, 70% were female, and 75% of sexually active students (n=287) were at high risk for CT.
• STD testing uptake increased significantly in the high-risk group, from 27% to 65%, following the program.
• CT prevalence was 5.7%, with all diagnoses occurring in the high-risk group. Independent predictors for testing included STD symptoms and inconsistent condom use.

Conclusions:

• Vocational school students represent a key demographic for sexual health interventions and STD screening.
• School-based programs offering counseling and CT testing facilities can dramatically increase testing rates in high-risk adolescent populations.
• Offering STD testing within vocational schools is a feasible strategy for reaching young adults, with counseling proving effective in boosting test rates.