Recently Mary launched an important research project, the Chlamydia Screening in Pharmacies study, aimed at developing more effective ways to screen for Chlamydia.
“Unfortunately infection rates are increasing, with Chlamydia now the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection among young women and men. It is spread through unprotected sex, and if left untreated can lead to infertility and other health problems,” Mary said.
Researchers from the ANU, UC and ACT Health, are keen to find ways to increase Chlamydia awareness and testing among young people, particularly because the infection can unknowingly be passed on, as it has no symptoms, and many young people usually go untreated.
Statistics show that one in Fourteen sexually active young women and men aged between 16 and 30 years, have Chlamydia.
With the financial support of ACT Health, the study aims to increase testing among young people, by providing the opportunity, and an incentive to be tested at a community pharmacy without having to make an appointment with health professionals, who they may normally go to.
“The study encourages young people, who visit a participating pharmacy for advice, to provide a urine specimen and their contact details and get $10 in return,” Mary stated. “Treatment is simple for those who test positive. A single dose of two antibiotic tablets will be offered.”
Mary congratulated the six participating community pharmacies in the ACT, four in the city, one at Hughes and the other at Charnwood, that have agreed to take part in this study.
Recruitment commenced early February.
Gallery 2011 Image 7
