The prevalence of chlamydia in adolescents and young adults in correctional facilities throughout the United States

Adolescent females in corrections are at substantially higher risk of chlamydial infection than adolescent males. In adult facilities, females aged <25 years are also at substantially higher risk of chlamydial infection than males <25 years, and have prevalence rates similar to those found among incarcerated adolescent females. Our findings at the national and local levels support screening of all females in juvenile facilities and young females aged <25 years in adult facilities. The prevalence of chlamydia in males aged 15-25 years is substantial, and the role of screening males for chlamydia prevention should be more fully explored.