Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the United States. They are most prevalent among teens and young adults. Chlamydia is often a ‘silent’ infection, meaning most individuals with the condition do not experience symptoms. Even when symptoms are present they are often vague. Chlamydia and gonorrhea infection can easily be detected by a non-invasive urine test and are readily treated with antibiotics. However, if untreated, they can lead to serious health problems, including chronic pelvic pain and infertility.
In an effort to maintain patient privacy and confidentiality, we are now routinely screening all patients aged 16 years and older (regardless of sexual history) for chlamydia and gonorrhea at their annual physical. A urine sample will be collected at the time of the annual physical and processed by Quest Laboratories. This is in accordance with recommendations made by The American Academy of Pediatrics, the CDC, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists,