Prevalence of Chlamydial and Gonorrheal Infections Among Females in a Juvenile Detention Facility, Honolulu, Hawaii

Abstract

Limited studies have shown high rates of gonorrheal and chlamydial infections among incarcerated adolescents, however, this population has not been routinely targeted for sexually transmitted disease (STD) screening. This study was done to ascertain the feasibility of screening females for STDs at a juvenile detention facility in Honolulu, Hawaii, and to determine the prevalence of chlamydial and gonorrheal infections in this population. Between January 2000 and December 2001, pelvic examination-based STD screening was offered to all female detainees, on selected dates. Specimens from multiple anatomical sites were cultured for Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Endocervical swabs were tested for Chlamydia trachomatis using a DNA probe (GenProbe). One-hundred one of 204 (50%) eligible females were screened. Fourteen of 101 (13.9%) females were screen positive for chlamydial infection, while six of 101 (5.9%) were culture positive for infection with N. gonorrhoeae. Three females were co-infected with both organisms. The high STD rates justify the institution of a routine screening program for this high risk and previously underserved group.

Sexually transmitted infection and blood-borne virus screening in juvenile correctional facilities: A review of the literature and recommendations for Australian centres

“…13 It is obviously impossible to generalise these prevalence figures to Australian or other populations, as STI prevalence in detention will largely depend on the background STI prevalence in the community. Some problems identified in the numerous US studies included the inherent bias present in retrospective analyses, 19 the use of some (now) outdated or insensitive diagnostic tests 12,13,[26][27][28] and lack of information on diagnostic methods or tests used. 19 Results of the Australian YPiCHS, 3 however, provide some of the most comprehensive data available worldwide for this population.…”

Recently Arrested Adolescents are at High Risk for Sexually Transmitted Diseases

“…We are not aware of any STD screening protocols targeting recently arrested adolescents before they are detained or incarcerated. In addition, existing STD screening, even among incarcerated adolescents, tends to be symptom-based,28,29 suggesting that most STDs among young offenders remain undetected because of the asymptomatic nature of chlamydia and gonorrhea 14,30. This article presents the first prevalence findings from a recently instituted STD screening protocol for arrested youths in Hillsborough County (Tampa), Florida.…”

Issues in Gynecologic Care for Adolescent Girls in the Juvenile Justice System

“…The prevalence of chlamydia and gonorrhea ranges between 14e22% and 5e6%, respectively. 13,18,19 HIV seroprevalence, on the other hand, does not seem to significantly differ from those in the community but data is limited. 20,21 It is recommended for all young women within the correctional system to be rigorously and periodically screened for HIV, 16 chlamydia, and gonorrhea using urine nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), and syphilis regardless of symptoms.…”

“…13,14 They initiate sexual activity at much younger ages, usually at 11e14 years, and their partners at coitarche are typically older males, as compared with their non-delinquent counterparts. 15,16 These girls have higher rates of sexual abuse, multiple partners, and are less likely to use contraception, both barrier and hormonal.…”