Risk behaviours and prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae genital infections among Montreal street youth

Int J STD AIDS. 2002 Apr;13(4):238-45. doi: 10.1258/0956462021925036.

Abstract

We estimated the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae genital tract infections among 302 Montreal street youth (223 boys) and identified associated risk factors. Study participants, 14-25 years old (average 20.9 years), meeting specific criteria for homelessness, were recruited in street youth agencies. Participation included a structured interview and provision of a urine specimen. Among sexually active youth, (n = 300) 30.0% had more than five heterosexual partners and 13.0% had at least one homosexual partner (last year), 10.7% had received money in exchange for sex (last six months) and 47.0% reported sexual relations resulting in pregnancy (lifetime). Among all youths, 82.1% had used at least one type of illicit drug, and 30.1% injected drugs at least once (last six months). The prevalence of C. trachomatis infection was 6.6% (95% CI 4.1-10.0%). Prevalence did not vary significantly by sex, age or any other variable, except history of pregnancy (10.4% among youth with history of pregnancy vs 3.6% among others, P = 0.02). No cases of N. gonorrhoeae infection were found.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Canada / epidemiology
  • Chlamydia Infections / epidemiology*
  • Chlamydia Infections / etiology
  • Chlamydia trachomatis*
  • Female
  • Genital Diseases, Female / epidemiology*
  • Genital Diseases, Female / etiology
  • Genital Diseases, Male / epidemiology*
  • Genital Diseases, Male / etiology
  • Gonorrhea / epidemiology*
  • Gonorrhea / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Prevalence
  • Risk-Taking*