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Disproportionate Rise in Congenital Syphilis Compared with Adult Syphilis Trends in Texas, United States: A
Diana Toro1, Tyler Chiu2, Laila Alkassar2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, United States.
Objective:
This study aimed to compare temporal trends in congenital syphilis with adult primary and secondary syphilis incidence in Texas, United States.
Study Design:
Population-based retrospective trend analysis using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research data from 2016 to 2023.
Results:
Congenital syphilis incidence increased from 17.5 to 238.6 per 100,000 live births, representing a 12.6-fold increase. The annual percent change (APC) was 29.7% (95% CI: 27.9-31.6; p < 0.001). Adult primary and secondary syphilis increased from 7.0 to 15.0 per 100,000 population (113% increase), with an APC of 13.1% (95% CI: 12.5-13.8; p < 0.001). The increase in congenital syphilis significantly outpaced adult trends (interaction p < 0.001).
Conclusion:
Congenital syphilis in Texas, United States, has increased at a markedly greater rate than adult syphilis, suggesting failures in prenatal screening, treatment, or care access beyond rising community transmission alone.
Key Points:
· Congenital syphilis in Texas, United States, increased 12.6-fold from 2016 to 2023.. · Congenital syphilis rates rose faster than adult syphilis, indicating system failures.. · Findings highlight gaps in prenatal screening, treatment, and care access..
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