Why you should be concerned about syphilis
Syphilis might seem like an old-fashioned disease, but it remains a serious public health issue today. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to severe health problems that affect multiple organs in the body, including the heart, brain, and eyes. Understanding the risks associated with syphilis can help you take steps to protect your health through regular testing and early treatment.
Long-term health risks
Untreated syphilis can be devastating
Without treatment, syphilis can progress to the tertiary stage, where it causes permanent damage to vital organs. Tertiary syphilis can result in conditions like neurosyphilis, cardiovascular syphilis, and gummatous syphilis, all of which can be life-threatening.¹ In this stage, the bacteria can damage the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints.² Early detection and treatment can prevent these devastating outcomes, but regular testing is crucial.
Increased risk of HIV
Having syphilis increases the risk of acquiring HIV. The sores caused by syphilis make it easier for HIV to enter the body during sexual contact.³ Co-infection with syphilis and HIV can also worsen the progression of both diseases.⁴ By getting tested regularly, you can reduce your risk of both syphilis and HIV and ensure timely treatment if needed.
Congenital syphilis
Syphilis can also be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, leading to congenital syphilis. This can cause severe complications for the baby, including stillbirth, miscarriage, or long-term health issues.⁵ The number of congenital syphilis cases has been rising in recent years, making this a growing concern for public health officials.⁶
Why early detection matters
Syphilis can be treated effectively with antibiotics when caught early. However, if left untreated, the infection can progress to more severe stages that are harder to treat and can cause permanent damage. Early detection through regular testing is the best way to prevent the serious health risks associated with syphilis.
The First to Know Syphilis Test is a convenient and rapid testing option that allows for early detection, reducing the risk of long-term complications. By getting tested regularly, you can protect your health and prevent the spread of syphilis to others.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Tertiary Syphilis – Long-Term Effects,” CDC.gov.
- Mayo Clinic, “Neurosyphilis and Cardiovascular Syphilis,” MayoClinic.org.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Syphilis and HIV Coinfection,” CDC.gov.
- World Health Organization (WHO), “Syphilis and HIV – The Connection,” WHO.int.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Congenital Syphilis – Overview,” CDC.gov.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Congenital Syphilis in the U.S.,” NIH.gov.