Cited 26 times since 2005 (1.3 per year) source: EuropePMC Sexually transmitted diseases, Volume 32, Issue 9, 1 1 2005, Pages 557-562 Acceptability and consequences of screening for chlamydia trachomatis by home-based urine testing. Götz HM, Veldhuijzen IK, van Bergen JE, Hoebe CJ, de Zwart O, Richardus JH, van Bergen JE, Broer J, Coenen AJ, Götz HM, de Groot F, Hoebe CJ, Richardus JH, van Schaik DT, Veldhuijzen IK, Verhooren MJ, PILOT CT Study Group
Objective
The objective of this study was to study the acceptability and consequences of home-based chlamydia (CT) screening by Municipal Health Services (MHS) among 15- to 29-year-old participants.
Study
This study consisted of a cross-section of 156 CT-positives and 600 random sampled CT-negatives after receiving the result of their CT test.
Results
Thirty-eight percent of the men and 59% of the women responded. The screening method was well-accepted. Seventy percent (52) of the CT-positives were surprised about their result. Infected women more often than men reported a feeling of being dirty and of anxiety about infertility. Curiosity for the CT result was decisive for participation in 68% and perception of personal risk was poor. The willingness to be tested regularly was determined by present chlamydial infection, young age, multiple lifetime partners, short relationship, and earlier test for chlamydia.
Conclusions
Chlamydia screening organised by MHS is acceptable for future screening. Participants with an elevated risk are interested in screening as long as test kits are easily available. Counseling with focus on effects of CT, especially on women, is essential. Alternative approaches are needed to motivate men and non-Dutch high-risk groups.
