Prevalence of Chlamydia Trachomatis in the Serum Sample of Individuals in Akpakpa, Cotonou

Abstract Background Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the world with severe complications. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection in the serum samples of individuals in Akpakpa, Cotonou. Study design: A cross-sectional study, using serological testing to perform the analysis in Akpakpa, Cotonou. The sample used was whole blood. The survey was carried out using a questionnaire. Method A random sample of about 11 adults aged 15–30 years was taken. The separated sera were subjected to anti-Chlamydia trachomatis (IgG) and anti-Chlamydia trachomatis (IgA) using ELISA techniques. Consenting men and women were issued questionnaires to collect information related to the study such as age, sex, lifestyle, symptoms associated with Chlamydia, family history, and past genital tract infection. Risk factor analyses were carried out for chlamydial infection Results Chlamydia antibodies were found in 27.27% of the individuals tested. The presence of Chlamydia antibodies was associated with unprotected sex, a history of genital tract infection, having more than one sexual partner, and a young age for both men and women. At the population level, the prevalence of chlamydial infection correlated well with reported rates of partner change. Conclusion The present study revealed the prevalence of chlamydia among women, individuals with a past history of genital tract infection, individuals associated with unprotected sex, individuals who have more than one sexual partner, and young people. A high percentage of individuals were unaware of the infection and its complications which was also associated with the prevalence of the infection.