Epidemiology of syphilis

Epidemiology of syphilis refers to the study of the patterns, causes, and effects of syphilis health and disease conditions in defined populations. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

History

Syphilis has been a major public health issue since the 15th century. The first well-recorded outbreak of syphilis in Europe occurred in 1495 among French troops. The disease then spread rapidly across Europe and later to other parts of the world.

Transmission

Syphilis is primarily spread through sexual activity, including oral and anal sex. Occasionally, the disease can be passed to another person through prolonged kissing or close bodily contact. Apart from sexual contact, syphilis can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her unborn child, a condition known as congenital syphilis.

Global Impact

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 6 million new cases of syphilis in individuals aged 15-49 years worldwide in 2016. The highest rates of the disease are found in developing countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa and South and Southeast Asia.

Prevention and Control

Prevention strategies for syphilis are primarily based on early detection and treatment of individuals infected with the disease. This includes regular screening of populations at high risk of infection, such as sex workers and men who have sex with men (MSM). Other prevention strategies include promoting safer sex practices and providing education about the disease.

Treatment

Syphilis can be effectively treated with antibiotics, particularly with the drug penicillin. In individuals allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics such as doxycycline or tetracycline can be used.

See Also

• Sexually transmitted infection
• History of syphilis
• Congenital syphilis
• Treponema pallidum

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  Global distribution of syphilis by DALY, WHO 2004

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  Syphilis cases by gender and transmission category in EU/EEA, 2012–2021

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  Syphilis cases in the United States, 2009

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  Trends in syphilis cases