Chlamydial infections among female adolescents screened in juvenile detention centers in Washington State, 1998-2002.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess trends in Chlamydia trachomatis positivity and associated risk factors among detained female adolescents.

GOAL

The goal of this study was to determine trends in prevalence of chlamydia among detained female adolescents.

STUDY DESIGN

We retrospectively reviewed risk factor data and chlamydia results collected by providers during 1998-2002 at four large juvenile detention centers in Washington State that routinely screen female adolescents for C. trachomatis.

RESULTS

Of 3,593 tests, a total of 493 (13.7%) were positive for chlamydia. High chlamydia positivity was sustained throughout the 5-year period (range, 12.5-15.0%) with no statistically significant trends in positivity. Independent risk factors for chlamydial infection included report of more than one sex partner in the previous 60 days (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.19-2.04) and previous chlamydial infection within 12 months (adjusted OR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.45-2.40).

CONCLUSIONS

Efforts are needed to promote chlamydia screening programs in juvenile detention centers because these sites have access to high-risk sexually active female adolescents.