Syphilis, an ancient and often overlooked disease, has never received the same level of caution and attention as HIV. It might surprise you to learn that syphilis cases have been surging globally in recent years, potentially even affecting those around you.
Why is there a Global Surge in Syphilis Cases?
Syphilis cases in Japan hit record highs
In January 2024, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that syphilis cases had reached their highest levels since 1950. In 2022, there were over 203,500 syphilis cases in the U.S., an 80% increase from four years prior. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, syphilis cases in the UK reached their highest levels since 1948 in 2022. Australia saw a nearly 90% increase in syphilis incidence compared to records from 2015. In Japan, there were approximately 15,000 syphilis patients in 2023, a twelvefold increase from ten years ago, reaching the highest recorded level under the current statistical method. The head of Japan’s National Institute of Infectious Diseases stated that infections may continue to rise.
The CDC data shows that syphilis is growing rapidly among various sexually transmitted diseases. By 2016, Japan had already taken measures against this trend, with syphilis cases reaching 4,077, five times the number in 2011.
Japan launched a cultural campaign against syphilis
To combat rising STD rates, Japan launched a cultural campaign against syphilis, including a partnership with Naoko Takeuchi to feature Sailor Moon in awareness efforts.
In a bold move, health authorities distributed themed condoms, posters, and flyers featuring Sailor Moon with slogans like “If you don’t get tested, you will be punished!” and “I will punish you in the name of the moon!” However, these efforts had limited impact, as many people collected the materials rather than using them. In 2023, Tokyo alone saw 3,677 confirmed syphilis cases, suggesting that previous campaigns had little effect.
The connection between dating apps and the rise in syphilis cases
Researchers in Japan have highlighted the connection between dating apps and the rise in syphilis cases. They concluded that the proliferation of such apps correlates with unprotected casual sex, a key factor in the high incidence of syphilis.
It was once thought that syphilis would be eradicated, but now, with HIV becoming a manageable chronic condition and increased openness about sexuality facilitated by the internet, syphilis has resurged.
Notably, congenital syphilis cases are also on the rise. In 2022, there were 3,755 cases in the U.S., more than double the number in 2018. In 2021, there were 30,000 cases across the Americas, a figure health officials deemed unacceptable.
Three theories explain the rise in female syphilis cases, indicating failures in drug treatment, education, and health policy. A survey by the Japanese Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists found that one out of every 200 pregnant teenagers had syphilis in 2022, nearly triple the rate six years ago.
Conclusion
From 2013 to 2021, the number of heterosexual transmission cases increased significantly in both men and women. While previously most cases were among men who have sex with men, heterosexual transmission has risen sharply, especially among women.
Syphilis can be treated with penicillin if caught early; however, due to its often asymptomatic nature, many do not seek testing until complications arise. Experts suggest that couples should exchange health reports before engaging in intimate activities, promoting safe practices to prevent the spread of syphilis.