Screening for genital chlamydial infection
Genital chlamydial infection - the most common, curable sexually transmitted disease in the United Kingdom - remains largely undetected and, as a result, increasing numbers of people are at risk of developing severe reproductive complications. This week's BMJ explores a new screening programme aimed at improving Britain's sexual health.
Since 1988, chlamydia infection in England has risen by 46%, with rates of infection currently highest in young sexually active people (16-19 year old women and 20-24 year old men). With no obvious symptoms, detection outside specialist clinics is limited. Yet, left untreated, severe complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and infertility, are common.
Evidence from Europe and the United States highlight the benefits of random screening in reducing the level of infection, particularly in women. This has led to the introduction of a screening programme now underway in Portsmouth and the Wirral. The programme will focus on sexually active young people and screening - involving a simple urine test - will be offered during routine visits to general practitioners, family planning or specialist clinics.
It is hoped that this programme will encourage closer collaboration between primary care and specialist services and provide a first step towards a more integrated approach to managing sexual health issues on a wider scale, conclude the authors.
Contact (via press office):
Simon Gregor, Communications Unit, Public Health Laboratory Service Headquarters, London
Email: sgregor@phls.org.uk