Mirroring National Patterns: Syphilis on the Rise in Michigan
Detroit — Back from the brink of eradication, syphilis is spiking in Michigan, prompting alarm within the medical community.
By the numbers
In 2022, 207,255 cases of syphilis were reported nationwide, the greatest number since 1950, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This is an explosion of cases compared with 2000 when 5,979 cases of primary and secondary syphilis were reported in the U.S., 288 of which were in Wayne County, according to the CDC.
Syphilis Cases in Michigan
In Michigan, the number of syphilis cases doubled between 2017 and 2022, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Specifically in Detroit, which has the highest number of cases in the state, the number of cases nearly tripled during the same period.
Factors Contributing to the Increase
Experts point to several factors for the increase in syphilis cases in Michigan. These factors include insufficient prenatal health care, lack of testing and education, public health funding diverted to COVID-19 during the pandemic, and a shortage of antibiotics for syphilis treatment. The epidemiology of infections has also changed, further contributing to the rise.
Efforts by State and Local Health Officials
State and local health officials recognize the urgency to address the rising syphilis rates and have taken action to combat the situation. They are working towards boosting testing, raising awareness, and reducing the stigma surrounding seeking treatment. Detroit, in particular, has implemented campaigns to increase awareness and testing not only among residents but also among healthcare providers.
Impact on Babies and congenital syphilis
The increase in syphilis cases in Michigan has also led to a rise in congenital syphilis, cases where the infection is transmitted from mother to child. Babies born with syphilis can experience severe health complications and even death. However, treatment with penicillin can prevent congenital syphilis in 98% of the cases.
Addressing Disparities and Removing Stigma
A significant racial and ethnic disparity exists in the impact of syphilis, with African American communities being disproportionately affected. Health organizations and officials are actively working to address this disparity and increase testing and treatment in these communities. Removing the stigma associated with STIs and increasing education are critical in curbing the spread of syphilis.
Treatment and Prevention
Syphilis, a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease, is treatable and curable with antibiotics. However, a shortage of penicillin, the primary treatment for syphilis, has presented challenges. Efforts have been made to address the shortage by importing a penicillin equivalent from other countries. Additionally, the introduction of Doxy-PEP, a preventive drug, has shown promising results in reducing the spread of syphilis.
Increasing Education and Testing
The importance of routine testing for syphilis, even for individuals in monogamous relationships, is emphasized by healthcare professionals. Increasing access to testing, particularly through point-of-care testing, and engaging with multiple healthcare settings are essential to reach a wider population. Education about the symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of testing plays a crucial role in controlling the epidemic.
Call to Action for Healthcare Providers
Healthcare providers are urged to incorporate syphilis testing into routine procedures, specifically for at-risk individuals. Collaboration with public health organizations and initiatives that focus on early intervention and prevention are crucial to reducing the impact of syphilis in affected communities.
