Chlamydia Case Study

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Public health approach in the control of Chlamydia infection affecting women's reproductive health.
Overview
Chlamydia trachomatis, an obligate intracellular gram-negative bacterium, is a commonly sexually transmitted infection (STI) with reports of new cases increasing globally [1]_. Chlamydia affects both men and women, it is most prevalent among young women of reproductive age and poses a risk on their reproductive health if left untreated. A major concern with chlamydia infections is that 70% to 85% of infected women are asymptomatic [2,3] and may never develop the signs or symptoms, such as genital pain and discharge from the vagina. If left untreated, however, it can lead to more serious health problems and complications, infertility inclusive. C. trachomatis is also a common cause of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy, tubal factor infertility in women. It can cause scarring and obstruction in the fallopian tubes, which may make women infertile. Chlamydial infections, just like STI, are primarily a woman's health care issue since the consequences are more damaging to the reproductive health in women than in men. C. trachomatis may also be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes for both mother and child, including miscarriage, preterm labor, premature rupture of the membranes, and low birthweight [4].
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trachomatis infection. Women of reproductive age (adolescents and adults) are the main target for this screening programs. Opportunistic screening programmes are adopted in most countries in clinical and non‐clinical settings, including primary care [11]. Eligible attendees are offered a chlamydia test, irrespective of reason for attending. The primary aim of screening is for early detection and treatment of uncomplicated lower genital tract infection while the secondary aim of screening is to reduce population prevalence of the infection