[Document: Chlamydia trachomatis: fundamentals of the importance of screening in the public health system].

The sexually transmitted infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis has a high prevalence in Chile and other latitudes and is associated with serious risks to the reproductive health of those who become infected. Screening with self- collected samples and detection by amplification of nucleic acids is the most effective form of sanitary control. Until now, in Chile, the diagnosis and epidemiological management of C. trachomatis is not carried out in public health. The Ministry of Health of Chile is making important progress to start this implementation. The Medical Societies are committed to participate in this process to achieve effective control of this infection in our population.