Chlamydia: Reported Cases, Rates, and Screening in Midwest States Tandra R. Gordon, M.S., 1 Brian C. Gordon, PhD, 2 and Lori W. Turner, PhD 2 Southern Illinois University, School of Medicine 1 The University of Alabama, Dept. of Health Science 2 AAHE Research Coordinating Board Student Poster, 2011 San Diego, CA

Chlamydia, a serious, most frequently reported bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the U.S. Chlamydia results in inflammation and infection that lead to pelvic inflammatory disease that can cause infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Introduction

National health objectives outline the urgent need to reduce the prevalence of Chlamydia. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) identified Chlamydia screening as one of the most important underutilized clinical preventive services. Introduction continued

The purpose of this study was to compare the prevalence of Chlamydia cases and rates, and to compare screening prevalence by region between 2004 and Purpose

Data from the Centers for Disease Control were analyzed. Data trends were compared for states in region V that includes Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Methods

In 2008, Illinois reported more cases and higher rates of Chlamydia than any of the states in region V. The rate of infection for Chlamydia in Illinois was 460.4/100,000, followed by Michigan (446.0/100,000), and Ohio (410.9/100,000), all of which were higher than the overall U.S. rate of 401.3/100,000. Results

Results continued

Women in IL, MI, and OH experienced higher rates of infection of Chlamydia than women in other states of the region and nationally. Results continued

Prior to 2008, states in region V reported screening less than 45% of eligible females years of age. Results continued

IL reported higher rates yet lower screening for Chlamydia in 2004, 2006, and 2008 compared to other states in region V. Chlamydia screening can be increased to prevent potentially harmful health outcomes. Discussion

Healthcare professionals can use Chlamydia screening as a primary prevention strategy. Health educators can develop tailored interventions to increase Chlamydia screening among healthcare professionals, and to reduce the incidence of Chlamydia among those at risk. Implications