The Resurgence of an Old Disease -Syphilis on the rise in NYC

syphilis-178883789 (1)The New York State Department of Health is raising awareness on the alarming and steady rise of syphilis cases in our region. The number of New Yorkers newly infected with syphilis has increased by more than 160% between 2010 and 2014.  Numbers are particularly higher in Manhattan and men account for approximately 70% of these cases.

Syphilis is considered an old, easy to diagnose and highly treatable disease.  It once plagued populations from the 1400’s up until the 1940’s; when it was discovered that antibiotics such as penicillin can be used as a cure.  Since then the spread of this sexually transmitted disease has been controlled with the use of modern medications and contraceptives such as condoms.

Given the history of syphilis and the resources that are readily available, one may question why we are seeing such resurgence? Studies have shown that people are having more casual and unprotected sex and many are unaware that they are carriers of the disease.

If left untreated the disease can cause serious damage to the body and can eventually lead to premature death.

The New York State Department of Health is encouraging people to remember the importance of practicing safe sex. The escalation of syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases can be reduced if unsafe sex practices are eliminated and if those who are sexually active receive frequent STD screenings.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for STD screenings, please call the Family Medicine Center at Jamaica Hospital at 718-206-6942 or visit http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/living/std-syphilis.shtml

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.