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Syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus infection, and targeting prevention
J R Harkess1, J Kudlac, G R Istre
1Epidemiology Service, Oklahoma State Department of Health, Oklahoma City 73152.
Southern Medical Journal
|November 1, 1990
Summary
Syphilis infection significantly increases the risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, particularly among young adults in Oklahoma. Targeted prevention for syphilis patients can efficiently identify individuals at high risk for HIV.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are significant public health concerns.
- Understanding the interaction between these infections is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of HIV-1 infection among individuals with syphilis in Oklahoma.
- To identify demographic groups at higher risk for co-infection.
Main Methods:
- An unlinked HIV seroprevalence survey was conducted using serum specimens from the Oklahoma State Department of Health.
- Specimens were tested for syphilis using the fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption test (FTA-ABS) and for HIV-1 antibodies.
Main Results:
- 6.3% of syphilis-positive specimens were also HIV-1 seropositive, compared to 0.8% of syphilis-negative specimens.
- HIV-1 seropositivity was concentrated in individuals aged 20-39 years, with higher rates among men (9.9%) than women (1.3%).
- Among syphilis-positive men aged 20-39, 17.6% were HIV-1 seropositive.
Conclusions:
- Syphilis is a strong indicator of potential HIV-1 infection in Oklahoma.
- Prevention efforts targeting young adults, especially men, who test positive for syphilis are recommended to reach populations at high risk for HIV-1.