Syphilis Cases Surge in Brazil, Highlighting Risks to Newborns and Public Health Concerns
Syphilis cases among pregnant women in Brazil are rising sharply, with increased risks of congenital syphilis and challenges in diagnosis and treatment that threaten public health.
- • Brazil recorded over 810,000 cases of syphilis in pregnant women from 2005 to mid-2025.
- • The national detection rate reached 35.4 cases per thousand live births in 2024, indicating rising congenital syphilis.
- • Subdiagnosis and inadequate treatment, especially of partners, fuel the spread and vertical transmission.
- • Youth aged 15-25 and the elderly are increasingly affected, often alongside HIV infections.
Key details
Syphilis infections in Brazil are growing at an alarming rate, particularly among pregnant women, raising urgent public health alarms due to the risk of vertical transmission to newborns. According to recent data from Brazil's Ministry of Health, 810,246 cases of syphilis in pregnant women were recorded from 2005 through June 2025. In 2024, the national detection rate jumped to 35.4 cases per thousand live births, underscoring continuing challenges with congenital syphilis.
The Southeast region is particularly affected, accounting for 45.7% of reported cases. Experts highlight that the disease's widespread underdiagnosis and inadequate treatment of both pregnant women and their partners are key factors driving the epidemic. Dr. Helaine Maria Besteti Pires Mayer Milanez, from the Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, noted that despite efforts starting in the 1980s, significant progress against congenital syphilis has yet to be achieved. Since syphilis is often asymptomatic—over 80% of infected pregnant women show no symptoms—identifying and treating the infection remains difficult.
Furthermore, syphilis cases are increasingly prevalent among younger populations aged 15 to 25 as well as the elderly. Factors such as lowered fear of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among youth and heightened sexual activity in the elderly contribute to rising infection rates, frequently accompanied by HIV co-infections. The upcoming Carnival festivities further increase transmission risks due to reduced use of protection.
Dr. Milanez emphasized that while HIV prevention tools like PrEP are available, syphilis requires urgent attention through accurate diagnosis and timely treatment to prevent severe consequences for fetuses and public health at large. Ongoing monitoring, improved awareness, and inclusive partner treatment are crucial to controlling this persistent health crisis in Brazil.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
