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Female Sex Workers in the Amazon Region of Brazil Are at High Risk of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection: A
Leonardo Gabriel Campelo Pinto de Figueiredo1, Paula do Socorro de Oliveira da Costa Laurindo1, Daniela Assunção Pantoja1
1Biology of Infectious and Parasitic Agents Post-Graduate Program, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil.
Background:
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) globally, linked to severe complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. In the Brazilian Amazon, socioeconomic vulnerability and the absence of screening policies exacerbate risks, particularly among female sex workers (FSWs).
Objective:
This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of anti-C. trachomatis IgG antibodies among FSWs in five municipalities of Pará State, Brazilian Amazon, and identify epidemiological factors associated with infection.
Methods:
A retrospective cross-sectional study (2005-2007) included 348 FSWs recruited via convenience sampling. Sociodemographic and behavioral data were collected through questionnaires, and blood samples were analyzed by ELISA for anti-C. trachomatis IgG. Statistical analyses included Fisher's exact tests, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), using SPSS 21.0.
Results:
Overall seroprevalence was 93.9% (327/348; 95% CI: 83.1-90%). Significant associations included a household income of 1-3 minimum wages (98.4%; p = 0.0002), sexual partners from the same region (98.8%; p = 0.0421), and age >42 years (96.3%). Most reported inconsistent condom use (43.7%), multiple monthly partners (54.6%), and illicit drug use (53.4%).
Discussion:
The extremely high seroprevalence reflects chronic C. trachomatis exposure, driven by socioeconomic deprivation and limited healthcare access. Comparisons with global data underscore the urgent need for screening policies, absent in Brazil for FSWs, and highlight the vulnerability of this population.
Conclusions:
The findings reveal an alarming burden of C. trachomatis exposure among Amazonian FSWs. Integrated strategies, including routine screening, sexual health education, and inclusion of FSWs in priority health programs, are critical to reduce transmission and associated complications.
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