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Innovations and Challenges in Syphilis Screening and Prevention Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Scoping Review
Mariam Assi1, Kimberly A Workowski, Leandro A Mena
1From the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
|July 1, 2026
Summary
Syphilis is rising among men who have sex with men globally. New tools like doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis and rapid diagnostics offer promise, but equitable access and integrated strategies are crucial for control.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Syphilis rates are increasing globally among men who have sex with men.
- This rise is linked to changing sexual networks, HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake, and screening/care gaps.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review innovative syphilis screening and prevention strategies for men who have sex with men.
- To highlight promising interventions and their limitations in addressing the syphilis epidemic.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of current evidence on syphilis screening and prevention.
- Focus on innovative biomedical and digital health strategies.
Main Results:
- Doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis, point-of-care testing, self-testing, and digital health show potential.
- Inconsistent implementation and challenges in access, effectiveness, and sustainability persist.
Conclusions:
- Novel strategies can extend reach and address structural barriers for underserved populations.
- Durable syphilis epidemic control requires equity-focused, multidisciplinary approaches integrating clinical, public health, and community efforts.
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