Incidence of Chlamydia trachomatis in Young Adults: An Epidemiological Analysis

Introduction: Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) represent a growing public health
challenge globally. Chlamydia trachomatis is the most prevalent bacterial STI, often
characterized as a "silent epidemic" since 70-80% of female infections are
asymptomatic. This hidden transmission increases the risk of severe long-term
complications, such as tubal infertility and chronic pelvic pain. This study aimed to
evaluate the incidence and epidemiological profile of C. trachomatis among young
adults in the Vila Real region (Portugal) over a one-year period.
Methods: A retrospective analysis of 155 urogenital samples from young adults (aged
16-25 years) was conducted at the Molecular Biology Sector of the Local Health Unit of
Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (ULSTMAD). Diagnosis relied on the gold-standard
Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) via Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR). The
automated analytical workflow included DNA extraction using the QIAGEN EZ1
Advanced XL system and amplification on a Bio-Rad thermal cycler, with validation
through the Seegene Viewer software.
Results: The global positivity rate was 14.8% (23 positive cases). A significant
predominance was observed in females, accounting for 65.2% of positive diagnoses.
This disparity is largely attributed to anatomical susceptibility (cervical ectopy) and
opportunistic screening during family planning consultations. Age stratification
identified the 18-20 years subgroup as the primary risk focus, recording a critical
incidence rate of 24.4%, which correlates with the onset of sexual activity and
inconsistent barrier method use.
Conclusions: The automated RT-PCR methodology demonstrated high diagnostic
robustness, speed, and sensitivity. The laboratory plays an indispensable role not only in
individual clinical diagnosis but also as a strategic pillar for regional epidemiological
surveillance, essential for breaking the hidden transmission chain of C. trachomatis.