'The great imitator': Scientists describe spike in global syphilis rates a public health crisis
A South African epidemiologist describes the comeback of the easily preventable infection as a huge public health failing.Syphilis, one of the oldest known diseases, is making a resurgence worldwide.
Among some medical practitioners, syphilis is known as"the great imitator" due to its variable clinical manifestations that can mimic other diseases.The infection can also be passed on from a mother to her baby during pregnancy resulting in congenital syphilis, causing premature birth, miscarriage, stillbirth, and birth defects.
The reported syphilis rates were nine times higher in men than in women; showing a peak onset age of 25 to 45 years in men.One study presented at the conference surveyed 20 000 MSM across 10 cities in India, noting dramatic increases in syphilis in every city. The study cites"rising co-infection rates and the unique interaction between these two sexually transmitted infections".An ancient condition, the oldest artistic representation of syphilis is considered to be on a Peruvian jug dating back to the 16th century, depicting a mother suffering from syphilis holding a child.However, over the past two decades scientists have reported an alarming spike in cases.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Orca Kills Great White Shark Alone, Surprising ScientistsAn orca has been observed killing a great white shark alone, which is a behavior that surprised scientists. The orca, named Starboard, typically hunts with another orca near Cape Town, South Africa. The incident was captured on video in Mossel Bay in June 2023. Orcas are known for their teamwork in hunting, making Starboard's solo kill unusual.
Read more »
Scientists chronicle the earliest stages of a supernovaA team of scientists has for the first time collected data on the earliest stages of a supernova.
Read more »
SA’s rivers and dams can no longer recover from pollution, say water scientistsAbout seven billion litres of sewage are released every day into rivers and dams
Read more »
Scientists identify Milky Way's ancient building blocksAstronomers have identified two ancient streams of stars that appear to be among the Milky Way's earliest building blocks.
Read more »
Lone wolf — scientists detail first recording of a single orca killing a white sharkKiller whales, or orcas, have a fondness for the livers of white sharks. But all recorded incidents of such predation have involved two or more orcas. Now a lone-wolf orca has been captured on film eviscerating a white shark for its liver in Mossel Bay.
Read more »
Minister’s plan will wipe out African penguins, say scientistsEnvironment Minister Barbara Creecy’s recent decision to help save African penguins could ironically 'sound the death knell' for this critically endangered seabird species which could become extinct as soon as 2035.
Read more »