Infectious syphilis in women: what’s old is new again?

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine trends in infectious syphilis epidemiology among women in Winnipeg, Canada. A descriptive study of syphilis among Winnipeg residents between 2003 and 30 June 2015 was undertaken. Adjusted rate ratios (ARR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) from Poisson regression analyses are reported. Characteristics of men and women were compared using logistic regression, with adjusted odds ratios (AOR) reported. Between 2014 and 2015, the rate of syphilis was 1.7/100,000, representing a five-fold increase since 2006–2013. All cases have been heterosexual, 90% 20–39 years of age, and 59% living in Winnipeg’s inner core. Approximately 24% were pregnant at diagnosis; no cases of congenital syphilis have been reported. Compared to men, women were more likely to report alcohol use (AOR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.2–11.9) and co-infection with chlamydia (AOR: 5.0, 95% CI: 1.1–22.9). In conclusion, the rates of infectious syphilis are increasing among women. Prenatal screening and education for inner-core women and the health care providers serving them should be prioritized.