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Moving toward the eradication of syphilis
Richard J Thomas1, Michael R MacDonald, Mark Lenart
1Department of Preventive Medicine and Biometrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
Military Medicine
|July 9, 2002
Summary
Syphilis cases in U.S. Navy personnel significantly decreased from 1990 to 1999. Further reductions require targeted prevention strategies and improved surveillance for syphilis elimination.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- Syphilis remains a significant public health concern, necessitating targeted strategies for vulnerable populations.
- The Department of the Navy's role in achieving national syphilis elimination goals requires examination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze syphilis incidence trends among active duty U.S. Sailors and Marines.
- To identify effective strategies for syphilis prevention and control within the Navy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of syphilis cases reported to the Navy Environmental Health Center from 1987 to 1999.
- Examination of demographic data and diagnosis locations for active duty personnel.
Main Results:
- A total of 1,886 syphilis cases were reported between 1987 and 1999.
- The majority of cases involved males younger than 30, and a significant proportion were black service members.
- Incidence rates of primary and secondary syphilis declined from 37 per 100,000 in 1990 to 3 per 100,000 in 1999.
Conclusions:
- Syphilis incidence among active duty Navy personnel has shown a substantial decline.
- Recommended strategies include adopting national elimination targets, enhancing prevention counseling, involving affected populations in intervention design, evaluating educational programs, reviewing condom access, and assessing surveillance systems.