U.S. health authorities have called for increased syphilis testing for pregnant women due to the alarming rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in newborns.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has updated its recommendations to urge doctors to test pregnant women for syphilis at least three times during pregnancy.
Why are more tests recommended?
- Cases of congenital syphilis, which is transmitted from the mother to the fetus, have increased by 937% over the past decade in the United States.
- In 2022, there were 3,755 cases of congenital syphilis in the country, resulting in 282 fetal or infant deaths.
- Congenital syphilis is a preventable disease with timely treatment.
What are the new recommendations?
- Perform a syphilis test on all pregnant women at the first prenatal visit.
- Perform a second syphilis test during the third trimester of pregnancy.
- Perform a third test on the baby at birth.
How is the infection treated?
- The infection is treated with antibiotics.
- Early treatment is key to preventing transmission of the disease to the fetus.
What else can be done to prevent its spread?
- Practice safe sex with condoms.
- Get tested for syphilis and other STIs if you are pregnant or think you might be at risk.
- Inform your sexual partners if you have syphilis so they can also receive treatment.
Certainly, the congenital syphilis rate in New Mexico is alarming, being the highest among all U.S. states. According to the data, there were 355.3 cases per 100,000 live births, a concerning figure that reflects the need to implement urgent measures to prevent this disease.
It is important to note that while New Mexico has the highest rate, it is not the only state with significant incidence. In fact, five other states—Texas, California, Arizona, Florida, and Louisiana—account for 57% of the cases reported nationwide. This situation raises alarms about the spread of congenital syphilis across the country.
It is crucial that health authorities, healthcare providers, and the community at large work together to implement preventive measures, such as expanding syphilis testing during pregnancy, and to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and proper treatment of this disease.
Image: Infobae
