Syphilis rates have been on the rise in the U.S. since 2000. Untreated syphilis can lead to cardiovascular or organ dysfunction, and syphilis infections can increase the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV.
In an update to its 2004 recommendation, the USPSTF now recommends screening asymptomatic, nonpregnant adults and adolescents. Individuals who are at-risk include, but are not limited to, the following, according to the JAMA report:
- Men who have sex with men
- Persons living with HIV
- Those with a history of incarceration or commercial sex work
- under the age of 29
“The USPSTF concludes with high certainty that the net benefit of screening for syphilis infection in nonpregnant persons who are at increased risk for infection is substantial,” the report reads.
More articles on syphilis:
Penicillin shortage could prove problematic as cases of syphilis increase
New smartphone accessory can diagnose HIV, syphilis at point of care
Syphilis on the rise in Indiana: Medical community put on alert
