Syphilis cases have nearly quadrupled in Iowa over the past five years, with a striking 796 percent rise among females and a 333 percent increase in congenital syphilis, according to state health data. This reflects a national trend, where syphilis rates have risen 800 percent over the past two decades, affecting populations across all demographics and regions. Health experts are now recommending a low threshold for screening all sexually active adults, especially those with syphilis-positive partners, who should also be evaluated and offered preventive treatment. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends screening pregnant women three times: at the first prenatal visit, the beginning of the third trimester, and at delivery. Syphilis presents in multiple stages, with primary symptoms often including painless sores, while advanced cases may cause rashes, blindness, heart issues, and neurological damage. For more information on prevention and treatment, review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) syphilis guidelines included below.
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