Prevalence and clinical correlates of chlamydia infection in youth who use drugs and alcohol: a good opportunity for early intervention

Abstract

Aims: This study estimates the prevalence of chlamydia infection amongst teenage substance users aged 14–18years and investigates risk factors associated with a positive diagnosis of chlamydia infection. Methods: Data was collected from the medical files of adolescents who attended a statewide drug and alcohol treatment facility during a three-year period commencing June 2011. Results: The highest rate of chlamydia detection (18.0%) was found in the group with a reported history of abuse, a non-substance use psychiatric diagnosis, and individuals who did not complete year 10 education. Conclusion: Adolescents attending a detoxification facility are a suitable group for targeted chlamydia infection screening and early treatment.