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Syphilis in China: the great comeback
1UCL Centre for International Health and Development, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
Emerging Health Threats Journal
|March 31, 2012
Summary
Syphilis was eliminated in China by the 1960s but has resurged. This review examines the history, causes, and control options for the syphilis epidemic in China.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- History of Medicine
Background:
- Syphilis was eliminated in China by the 1960s.
- A significant resurgence of syphilis has occurred since the 1990s, reaching an incidence of 5.3 per 100,000 people between 2000-2005.
- The resurgence sparks debate on politics, public health, and government disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the history of the syphilis epidemic in China.
- To explore the reasons behind the disease's resurgence.
- To discuss potential control strategies for syphilis.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of syphilis in China.
- Analysis of factors contributing to disease elimination and resurgence.
- Discussion of public health policy and disease control measures.
Main Results:
- Syphilis was successfully eliminated in China in the 1960s.
- A gradual resurgence has been observed over the past two decades.
- The resurgence is linked to socioeconomic changes and individual freedoms.
Conclusions:
- The syphilis resurgence in China is a complex issue with historical, political, and socioeconomic dimensions.
- Effective control strategies require careful consideration of the current social and economic climate.
- Options for future syphilis control in China warrant further discussion and research.
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