Resurgence of Syphilis: A Looming Public Health Crisis

                                                                                   

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the surge in syphilis cases in the United States has reached levels not seen since 1950, with a 17% increase in the past year and an 80%increase in the past five years.

The rise in syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia cases, especially among the newborn is also alarming. In 2022, over 2.5 million cases of these infections were reported, with more than 3,700 babies born with syphilis, a tenfold increase over the past decade.

The surge in syphilis cases is attributed to various factors, including underfunding of public health, increasing rates of substance use, and the mental health crisis. The CDC reported 207,255 syphilis cases across nearly every demographic group and region in 2022, including the newborn. 

The increase in congenital syphilis is particularly concerning, as it can lead to stillbirth, miscarriage, infant death, and lifelong medical issues for both mother and baby. Syphilis is easily preventable with timely screening and treatment.

The surge in syphilis cases has put a strain on public health resources, with health departments still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and other outbreaks. Congress's plan to cut $400 million in public health workforce funds further exacerbates the situation. This has raised concerns about the ability to combat the surge and provide necessary support to communities at risk.

The surge in syphilis cases has disproportionately affected racial and ethnic minorities, with black Americans and native American/Alaska native people being particularly impacted. The rise in cases has also revealed disparities in access to prenatal care, with two in five cases of babies born with syphilis occurring in people who did not receive any prenatal care.

Conclusion

In light of these developments, it is clear that concerted action is needed to address the surge in syphilis cases and prevent further tragedies. The rise in congenital syphilis is a stark warning sign that requires additional steps to connect mothers and babies with the care they need. It is essential to improve access to syphilis testing and treatment for everyone to prevent syphilis in babies and advance health equity.