Screening for chlamydia trachomatis: barriers for homeless young people.

OBJECTIVE

The study explored homeless young people's knowledge and attitudes of Chlamydia trachomatis (Chlamydia) and its screening.

DESIGN

Semi-structured interviews using focus groups.

SETTING

An inner city clinic for homeless young people.

SUBJECTS

Homeless young people aged 16 -26 years.

OUTCOMES

Perceptions of Chlamydia and its screening.

RESULTS

19 males and 6 females aged 16-26 years participated. Content analysis confirmed a lack of knowledge, prior education and misinformation about Chlamydia and barriers to being screened. Ideas for informing young people about Chlamydia included advertising on billboards, in free newspapers, and improved school sex education programs.

CONCLUSIONS

Homeless young people have poor knowledge of Chlamydia and its screening and barriers to the screening process. Culturally-specific education and health promotion programs and services are needed.