Chlamydia Knowledge among Asymptomatic Females Utilizing University Health Center Gynecological Services

Abstract

A survey of 475 asymptomatic women utilizing university student health services revealed a low to moderate level of knowledge regarding genital Chlamydia trachomatis infections. The most common sources of Chlamydia knowledge were physicians and nurses, magazines, and teachers and schools. Seventy-nine respondents had no source of information. Sexually active subjects (n = 449) and those previously diagnosed with genital Chlamydia trachomatis infections (n = 53) had higher knowledge scores. Thirty-seven respondents tested positive for genital Chlamydial trachomatis infection. Knowledge score was unrelated to current infection status. Implications of these findings for education efforts related to prevention of sexually transmitted diseases are discussed.