Chlamydia trachomatis urogenital infection and associated risk factors among university students in Croatia

Abstract

Objective − The study aimed to determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection among university students in Croatia and to determine risk factors associated with chlamydia infection.

Material and methods − The study was conducted as an opportunistic screening of asymptomatic sexually active students attending routine health examinations during their first year of studying. The first void urine samples from males, cervical swab or first void urine samples from females and data regarding life style, sexual and other health-risk behaviour were collected and analysed.

Results − Overall prevalence of chlamydia infection was 4.9%, with the testing response rate of 29.5%. The only identified risk factor was female sex. Female students preferred urine sample over cervical swab sample and avoided gynaecologist examination.

Conclusion − Opportunistic screening is a feasible strategy to diagnose asymptomatic chlamydia infection among university students in Croatia. Results may contribute to decision making on the form of chlamydia control policy, including choice of screening settings and specimens suitable for target population.