Rise in Syphilis Cases and Other STIs: Causes and Solutions Explored
In recent years, there has been a concerning surge in cases of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), particularly syphilis, in Luzerne County. While the medical profession emphasizes the importance of getting tested and treated, understanding the underlying causes of this increase is more complex. Dr. Alison Brodginski, an infectious disease physician at Geisinger, suggests that multiple factors contribute to this alarming trend.
Social behavior seems to play a significant role in the rise of STIs. Risky sexual behavior, often associated with increased use of illicit drugs, has led to a higher prevalence of these infections. Additionally, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has impacted individuals’ willingness to seek healthcare services for prevention screenings. Fear of exposure to COVID-19 and other contagious diseases in healthcare facilities has deterred people from accessing necessary screenings.
Moreover, political pressure to reduce government spending has resulted in cuts to resources that support education and free blood screenings for STIs. While health care companies like Geisinger remain relatively unaffected by these reductions, community partners such as clinics, outreach organizations, and municipal health departments have experienced limitations in their ability to provide essential services.
Another contributing factor is the shortage of bicillin, the preferred antibiotic for treating syphilis. Although this shortage has not significantly affected Northeast Pennsylvania, it raises concerns about whether the increase in cases is a result of the shortage or vice versa. While alternative treatments exist for some cases, pregnant women with syphilis rely on bicillin as the primary drug for treatment. The rise in congenital syphilis cases, which have increased tenfold over the past decade, highlights the urgency of addressing this issue.
Dr. Darrell McBride, an infectious disease physician at Geisinger, emphasizes that STIs are more dangerous for newborns than adults. Congenital STIs can lead to severe complications and even mortality in infants. Preventing these infections is crucial, as treatment alone is not sufficient. McBride highlights the importance of regular screenings, as many STIs can be asymptomatic. For instance, chlamydia and syphilis often show no symptoms or present in areas that individuals do not routinely check.
Syphilis, often referred to as the “great imitator,” initially manifests as a painless ulceration at the site of infection, commonly the genitals. If left untreated, it progresses to a rash, typically found on the palms of hands and soles of the feet. However, syphilis can present differently in some cases, resembling a common rash or eczema. Without proper treatment, the disease can cause severe complications in various organs, including the brain, heart, joints, and bones.
The treatment for syphilis depends on the stage of the infection. Early detection allows for a single intramuscular shot of bicillin, followed by regular blood tests to ensure eradication. However, individuals should be aware that STIs do not confer immunity, and reinfection is possible with each exposure. Both partners should undergo testing and treatment to prevent reinfection.
While sexual activity and level of exposure risk influence the timing of STI testing, pregnancy should always prompt women to get tested. Unfortunately, the rise in congenital syphilis cases indicates that many pregnant women are not being tested. Dr. Brodginski stresses the importance of prenatal care and encourages women to seek testing and evaluation at designated healthcare institutions like Geisinger.
In conclusion, addressing the rise in syphilis cases and other STIs requires a multifaceted approach. Encouraging responsible sexual behavior, increasing access to prevention screenings, and ensuring adequate resources for education and free testing are crucial steps in combating this public health issue. By prioritizing prevention and early detection, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of STIs and protecting the well-being of individuals and their communities.
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