an Eldis Resource
The need and plan for global elimination of congenital syphilis
How to eliminate congenital syphilis across the globe
Authors:
G.P. Schmid; B.P. Stoner; S. Hawkes
Publisher:
[publisher information not available], 2007
In every society, congenital syphilis (CS) has significant medical, economic, societal and emotional burdens. Inexplicably, the elimination of CS has failed to attract international attention. Yet, the cornerstones of programs to do this universally are in place. The recent development of new diagnostic tools offers the now-practical possibility of testing every pregnant woman, testing is cost-effective, and programs for the elimination of CS can be joined with other programs to enhance efficiency. This short review in the American Sexually Transmitted Disease Journal argues that the magnitude of the CS burden, globally, rivals that of HIV infection yet receives little attention. The authors then examine the proposed World Health Organization Strategy for the Global Elimination of Congenital Syphilis which aims to mobilise resources and provide a plan to address this underrecognised health problem.
No reliable global estimates of the numbers of cases of CS exist. To determine the magnitude of the problem of CS, the authors of this review have estimated the numbers of cases of CS occurring annually and present preliminary results. Data is presented from 31 countries. CS rates were at their highest in the American region (3.90%), followed by the African region. The authors argue that the number of cases of CS and their clinical morbidity have important economic and social implications. The review concludes that countries do not face insurmountable obstacles in attempts to achieve CS elimination. It says that what they often lack are political commitment evidence-based priority setting, and advocacy at all levels; there is little reason why the elimination of CS is not a priority, and many reasons why it should be.
