Avast me hearties! Tis a tale o' syphilis rampagin' in the US. Listen up, ye landlubbers!
2024-02-06
Arrr, Syphilis be running wild in the U.S., reachin' the highest numbers in nearly 75 years! The learned ones speak of reasons for this outbreak, who be in danger, and how to fight off this scurvy infection. Avast, mateys, be careful where ye drop anchor!
Syphilis cases in the U.S. have reached the highest numbers in nearly 75 years, with a 10% increase in 2022 and a 68% increase since 2018, according to the CDC. Experts have identified several reasons for this surge. Dr. Bryan Dechairo, CEO of Sherlock Biosciences, attributes it to a lack of testing and access to testing, particularly among at-risk populations. He also mentions a decline in protected sex, especially among younger people, who perceive a reduced risk due to the success of HIV prevention and treatment. Dechairo adds that a reduction in sexual health services and professionals, combined with social and economic inequalities, has created a perfect storm for the resurgence of syphilis, primarily affecting marginalized communities. Dr. Jarod Fox of Orlando Health mentions the rise in illicit drug use and dating apps as factors that contribute to more risky sexual encounters. Men who have sex with men and certain racial and ethnic groups are at a higher risk of syphilis. The primary treatment for syphilis is penicillin injections, but there have been intermittent shortages of the drug. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to severe health complications, including damage to major organs, neurological issues, blindness, and even death. To reverse the upward trend, experts call for increased access to testing, comprehensive sexual health education, improved access to healthcare, and targeted interventions for high-risk groups. They also emphasize the need for more public health funding to address the disproportionate impact on minority communities. By implementing these multifaceted efforts, the spread of syphilis can be curbed, leading to improved public health outcomes for all communities.