Risk of self-reported Chlamydia trachomatis infection by social and lifestyle factors – A study based on survey data from young adults in Stockholm, Sweden

ABSTRACT

Objective To analyse the associations between demographic, socio-economic and lifestyle factors, and the risk of self-reported chlamydial infection among young adults (20–29 years old) in Stockholm, Sweden.

Methods This study was based on the Stockholm Public Health Survey of 2006 (N = 4278). Demographic factors (gender, age, and country of birth), socio-economic factors (individual and parental educational levels, individual income level, and employment status), and lifestyle factors (body mass index, mental health, alcohol consumption, and partnership status) were taken into account. Possible associations were analysed by logistic regression.

Results The risk of self-reported chlamydial infection decreases with age, is higher among individuals both who personally, and whose parents, were educated to high school level compared to university level education, and is higher among those employed, unemployed or on sick-leave/pre-retired compared to students. The risk of chlamydial infection is also higher among subjects who report greater alcohol consumption, and those who live without a partner. After considering demographic, socio-economic and lifestyle factors, the associations with age, educational level, employment status and alcohol consumption are strong and statistically significant.

Conclusion Indicators of risk-taking behaviours, especially in settings with generally little educational ambition or options, should be incorporated in the design of STI prevention strategies.

KEYWORDS:

• Chlamydia trachomatis
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Risk
• Employment
• Alcohol consumption

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.