The study is entitled ‘Prevalence Study Chlamydia and Gonorrhea in the Netherlands’ (PECAN). It is an addition to the national study into sexual health in the Netherlands. This study is a collaboration between Statistics Netherlands (CBS), Rutgers, Soa Aids Nederland, RIVM and the GGD. Participants in this study aged 16 to 34 years may be asked whether they would like to participate in the PECAN study. They will then receive information and a free STI home test. Those who participate can send the STI test to the Regional Laboratory of the GGD Amsterdam. They are tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Complaints
For the current monitoring for chlamydia and gonorrhea, RIVM uses data from sexual health care. However, these do not provide a complete picture, as they are only data on people who have had themselves tested. For example, because they have complaints or think they have run a risk of an STI. But an STI also occurs in people without symptoms. With this additional research, RIVM hopes to gain a better understanding of how often chlamydia and gonorrhea occur in the Netherlands. The first results of the study are expected in 2024.
By: National Education Guide