Minors are the most affected by Chlamydia trachomatis in Reunion Island: A cross-sectional study, 2017-2018.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) in the population screened at sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinics on Reunion Island and to identify risk factors for CT infection.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

This cross-sectional multicenter study was conducted in 2017-2018. Data were obtained from self-administered questionnaires and multiplex PCR tests.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of CT in the screened population was 8.6% (95% CI 7.7-9.5%). The prevalence of urogenital CT was highest in women under 18 (13.2%, 95% CI 9.3-18.1%) and in men who have sex with men under 18 (13.3%, 95% CI 1.6-48.2%). Risk factors associated with CT infection in multivariate analysis were: female gender, being born in Reunion Island, having had a large number of sexual partners in the past year, and being co-infected with another STI.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of CT in the screened population is higher in Reunion Island than in mainland France, especially in minors. Prevention campaigns targeting minors should be strengthened.