The United States is grappling with a significant rise in syphilis cases, with rates reaching levels not seen since 1950, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The data reveals a 9% increase in infectious syphilis cases in 2022, bringing the total number of cases to over 207,000. This surge is particularly concerning as it disproportionately affects certain racial and ethnic groups.
American Indian and Alaska Native populations have been hit hardest, experiencing the highest rates of the most infectious types of syphilis. South Dakota, which has a large Native American community, reported the highest rate of infectious syphilis in the nation at 84 cases per 100,000 people – more than double the rate of the next highest state.
Dr. Meghan O’Connell, chief public health officer at the Great Plains Tribal Leaders’ Health Board, explained that the outbreak in South Dakota was primarily driven by cases in the Native American community. She noted that STD testing and treatment were already limited in isolated tribal communities and worsened during the pandemic.
The report also highlighted disparities in syphilis rates across different racial and ethnic groups nationwide. In response to these concerning trends, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services convened a syphilis task force last year, focusing on 13 states and the District of Columbia with the highest syphilis rates.
While the rise in syphilis cases is alarming, the report did offer some positive news. Gonorrhea rates decreased for the first time in a decade, and chlamydia rates remained relatively stable. However, health officials emphasize the need for continued vigilance and improved access to testing and treatment, particularly in underserved communities, to address these persistent health disparities.
See “The US hasn’t seen syphilis numbers this high since 1950. Other STD rates are down or flat” (January 30, 2024)
