Seroprevalence and Risk Factors for Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection among HIV-AIDS Positive Women in the Soa District Hospital, Cameroon

Author(s): Mohamadou Mansour, Valerie Emvoutou Maboulou, Marie Chantal Ngonde Essome, Roger Ahouga Vouffo, Julius Nsawir Bonglaisin, Cyrille Levis Kountchou, Adamou Velhima Elie, Lucia Nkengazong

Background: Chlamydia trachomatis infection is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) globally. A high prevalence of C. trachomatis has been consistently reported among people living with HIV/AIDS. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence and identify risk factors for C. trachomatis infection in women living with HIV/AIDS. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 80 women living with HIV/AIDS. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and intravaginal practices were collected using a structured questionnaire. Serological testing for anti-Chlamydia trachomatis IgG and IgM antibodies was performed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The overall seroprevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection was 50%. The highest prevalence was observed in the 30-40 years age group (18.75%). A lower prevalence of infection was associated with higher education; women with a university education had a prevalence of 8.75%. Intravaginal practices were identified as a significant risk factor, with 32.5% of infected women reporting this practice. Conclusion: The high seroprevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis in this cohort suggests that HIV infection increases the risk of co-infection. We recommend that women living with HIV/AIDS undergo regular screening for other sexually transmitted infections, particularly C. trachomatis.