Routine testing for Chlamydia trachomatis on Curaçao, Netherlands Antilles

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection is frequently asymptomatic, necessitating effective screening strategies.
• Early intervention is crucial to prevent severe sequelae associated with untreated chlamydial infections.
• Cost-effectiveness of screening programs depends on maintaining a sufficient infection prevalence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection among asymptomatic women of reproductive age on Curaçao.
• To identify predictors for Chlamydia trachomatis infection within this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted on 205 asymptomatic women of reproductive age undergoing gynecologic examinations.
• Prevalence was measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.
• Statistical analysis identified potential predictors of infection.

Main Results:

• The overall prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection was 5.4% (95% CI: 2.7%–9.4%).
• Younger age (< 25 years) was identified as a significant predictor, with a prevalence of 10.3% in this subgroup.
• ELISA proved effective for detecting chlamydial infections in the study population.

Conclusions:

• Routine screening for Chlamydia trachomatis is indicated for sexually active women under 25 years old on Curaçao.
• This targeted approach supports cost-effective screening and early management of chlamydial infections in the Caribbean region.
• Findings support the implementation of age-based screening protocols for Chlamydia trachomatis in similar island populations.