Análise epidemiológica da Sífilis no Amazonas

Abstract

Introduction: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It is curable, often asymptomatic, and progresses through stages that characterize its symptoms. However, several challenges persist regarding this public health problem, such as the inconsistent use of condoms during sexual intercourse, partners’ negligence toward treatment, and the lack of adherence to treatment and prenatal care follow-up by some pregnant women.Objective:To analyze the clinical-epidemiological profile of syphilis in its three forms—acquired, congenital, and in pregnant women—in the state of Amazonas.Method:This is a descriptive, retrospective epidemiological study that analyzed syphilis notifications in the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) in the state of Amazonas, between 2012 and 2021, available from the Informatics Department of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS).Results:In Amazonas, between 2012 and 2021, acquired syphilis was predominantly observed in males, people of mixed race (pardo), aged 20 to 39 years, with a complete high school education. Regarding congenital syphilis, a higher prevalence was identified in male newborns, children of mixed-race mothers, young mothers (20 to 24 years old), with low educational levels, who had received prenatal care. Finally, syphilis in pregnant women was most common in mixed-race women, aged 20 to 39 years, with incomplete elementary education, and most cases were classified as primary syphilis.Implications:The study revealed a high incidence of cases and critical challenges, such as late diagnosis in pregnant women and the lack of adequate treatment for partners. To address these problems, it is proposed to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, improve prenatal care, and intensify health education initiatives as strategies to promote high-quality prenatal care and effective follow-up for pregnant women.