PREVALENCE OF CHLAMYDIA AMONG WOMEN IN PLACES OF DEPRIVATION OF LIBERTY

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Chlamydia trachomatis is a significant cause of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) globally.
• Prevalence and risk factors in vulnerable populations, such as incarcerated individuals, require focused investigation.
• Understanding chlamydial infection dynamics in Ukrainian female prisons is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the seroprevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection in female prisoners in Ukraine.
• To identify sociodemographic and behavioral risk factors associated with chlamydial infection spread within this population.
• To analyze the clinical manifestations and co-infections associated with Chlamydia trachomatis.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 103 female prisoners in Ukraine.
• Serological analysis for Chlamydia trachomatis immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies.
• Collection and analysis of data on social characteristics, risk factors, and clinical symptoms.

Main Results:

• Chlamydia trachomatis IgG antibodies were detected in 37.8% of the studied female prisoners.
• The infection was frequently asymptomatic or presented as chronic endocervicitis (53.8%), adnexitis (38.5%), and urethritis (17.9%).
• High rates of co-infections with other STIs including HIV, HSV, HBV, and HCV were observed.

Conclusions:

• The prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis in Ukrainian female prisoners is significantly higher than in the general population and women with chronic pelvic inflammatory diseases.
• Risk factors identified include age over 25, co-infections with other STIs (HIV, HSV, HCV, HBV), substance use, and prolonged confinement.
• These findings underscore the need for enhanced screening, prevention, and treatment strategies for Chlamydia trachomatis within correctional facilities.