Incidence of sexually transmitted diseases and Pap smear results in female homeless clients from the Chicago Health Outreach Project.

Homeless persons have difficulty gaining access to health care. In 1985 the Chicago Health Outreach Project was created to improve their access to health care. Staff and client reviews indicated that female homeless clients required increased outreach efforts. Consequently, a mobile women's health unit was developed in 1990. Review of 128 records of 104 female homeless clients indicated that 30% of Pap smears done were abnormal, with atypia (14%) and inflammation (10%) the most common findings. The incidence of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis was 3%, 6%, and 26%, respectively. There was a significant association between the presence of trichomoniasis and an abnormal Pap smear. These results emphasize the importance of providing regular gynecological care to homeless women. Research is needed on the implications of abnormal Pap smears and sexually transmitted diseases for this population of female homeless clients.