Congenital Syphilis in Live Births: Adverse Outcomes, Hospital Length of Stay, and Costs.

OBJECTIVE: To examine temporal trends and risk factors for congenital syphilis in newborn hospitalizations and to evaluate the association between adverse outcomes and congenital syphilis and health care utilization for newborn hospitalizations complicated by congenital syphilis. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional study using data from the National Inpatient Sample to identify newborn hospitalizations in the United States between 2016 and 2020. Newborns with congenital syphilis were identified with International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification codes. Adverse outcomes, hospital length of stay, and hospital costs were examined. The annual percent change was calculated to assess congenital syphilis trend. A multivariable Poisson regression model with robust error variance was used to examine the association between congenital syphilis and adverse outcomes. Adjusted relative risks (RRs) with 95% CIs were calculated. A multivariable generalized linear regression model was used to examine the association between congenital syphilis and hospital length of stay and hospital costs. Adjusted mean ratios with 95% CIs were calculated. RESULTS: Of 18,119,871 newborn hospitalizations in the United States between 2016 and 2020, the rate of congenital syphilis increased over time (annual percent change 24.6%, 95% CI, 13.0-37.3). Newborn race and ethnicity, insurance, household income, year of admission, and hospital characteristics were associated with congenital syphilis. In multivariable models, congenital syphilis was associated with preterm birth before 37 weeks of gestation (adjusted RR 2.22, 95% CI, 2.02-2.44) and preterm birth before 34 weeks of gestation (adjusted RR 2.39, 95% CI, 2.01-2.84); however, there was no association with low birth weight or neonatal in-hospital death. Compared with newborns without congenital syphilis, hospital length of stay (adjusted mean ratio 3.53, 95% CI, 3.38-3.68) and hospital costs (adjusted mean ratio 4.93, 95% CI, 4.57-5.32) were higher among those with congenital syphilis. CONCLUSION: Among newborn hospitalizations in the United States, the rate of congenital syphilis increased from 2016 to 2020. Congenital syphilis was associated with preterm birth, longer hospital length of stay, and higher hospital costs.

Associated factors, incidence, and management of gestational and congenital syphilis in a Brazilian state capital: a cross-sectional study.

Maternal and child health remains an enduring global challenge, having occupied a prominent position on international agendas since the dawn of the 21st century. During pregnancy, syphilis emerges as the second most prevalent cause of stillbirth on a global scale, potentially leading to a range of adverse outcomes. This study aimed to describe the clinical and epidemiological profile of cases of gestational and congenital syphilis and the hospital care provided for newborns in Campo Grande municipality, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil, from 2013 to 2018. This is a cross-sectional study based on data from Brazilian Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (SINAN) and hospital medical records. Chi-square or Fisher's exact test and logistic regression analysis were used to assess the associations and relationships between the child's clinical outcome at birth and the mother's clinical-obstetric and epidemiological characteristics. Cumulative detection rate of gestational syphilis was 174.3 cases per 1,000 live births and cumulative incidence of congenital syphilis was 47.7 cases per 1,000 live births. Alcoholism, prenatal care, number of prenatal visits, maternal treatment regimen, and timing of maternal diagnosis were associated with child's clinical outcome at birth and considered in the regression model. Prenatal visits showed a protective effect against the signs and symptoms of congenital syphilis (odds ratio = 0.37; 95% confidence interval = 0.17-0.77). Medical assistance was considered inadequate in 62.3% of cases. Prenatal consultations should be encouraged among pregnant women. There is a need for better education of health personnel on the treatment and diagnosis of syphilis.

Sífilis congênita no Município do Rio de Janeiro, 2016-2020: perfil epidemiológico e completude dos registros / Congenital syphilis in the city of Rio de Janeiro, 2016-2020: epidemiological profile and completeness of records

Introdução: A sífilis congênita mantém-se como problema de saúde no Brasil, especialmente na cidade do Rio de Janeiro, com números para esse agravo acima da média do país. Essa doença é um marcador para a avaliação da qualidade da assistência à saúde materno-infantil, por poder ser evitada a partir de medidas como diagnóstico precoce e tratamento da gestante. Objetivos: Este estudo transversal descreveu o perfil epidemiológico dos casos de sífilis congênita (SC) no município do Rio de Janeiro, nos anos de 2016 a 2020, no que se refere a dados sociodemográficos maternos, do pré-natal e da evolução do quadro, assim como as taxas de incidência totais e segundo esses fatores. Adicionalmente, foram calculadas as taxas de mortalidade fetal e infantil. Também se avaliou o grau de completude das variáveis da ficha de SC. Métodos: Foram incluídos todos os casos notificados de sífilis congênita na cidade durante o período estudado, a partir dos registros do Sistema de Informações de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN). Foram utilizados o Sistema de Informações sobre Nascidos Vivos (SINASC) e o Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade (SIM) como base de dados para os cálculos das taxas de incidência e de mortalidade. Resultados: Entre 2016 e 2020, a cidade do Rio de Janeiro apresentou elevadas taxas de sífilis congênita, chegando a uma incidência de 18,6/1000 nascidos vivos em 2020, com mais de 90% de casos de SC recente. A maioria ocorreu em mulheres em situação de vulnerabilidade social ­ pretas, adolescentes, com baixa escolaridade e sem acesso à assistência pré-natal. Destaca-se ainda o baixo grau de completude de algumas variáveis e a divergência encontrada entre os dados de mortalidade do SIM e do SINAN, ambos fatores que prejudicam o adequado conhecimento do agravo. Conclusão: Conclui-se que, apesar dos avanços, muito ainda precisa ser realizado para o controle da sífilis congênita no município do Rio de Janeiro (AU).

Introduction: Congenital syphilis remains an important national health issue, especially in Rio de Janeiro, which presents numbers above the country's rate for this offense. This disease is a marker for the assessment of the quality of care delivered to mothers and children since it can be avoided through early diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy. Objective: This cross-sectional study described the epidemiological profile of congenital syphilis cases in the city of Rio de Janeiro, in 2016-2020, according to maternal sociodemographic data, prenatal care, and cases' evolution. Furthermore, incidence rates for these factors and the fetal and infant mortality rates were calculated. The completeness of the records was also assessed. Methods: We included all notified cases of congenital syphilis in the city during 2016-2020 using SINAN records. SINASC and SIM were also used as databases for the incidence rates and the mortality rates calculation. Results: During this period, the city of Rio de Janeiro exhibited high rates of this disease, with 18,6 cases/1000 live births in 2020 and more than 90% cases of early congenital syphilis. The highest rates were related to social vulnerability ­ black and teenage women with low levels of education and no access to prenatal care. It is important to highlight the low level of completeness for some variables and the divergence found between the mortality data from SIM and SINAN, both factors that jeopardize adequate knowledge of the disease. Conclusion: Therefore, despite some advances, a lot must be done to achieve control of congenital syphilis in the city of Rio de Janeiro (AU).

Prenatal syphilis screening among pregnant Medicaid enrollees by sexually transmitted infection history as well as race and ethnicity.

BACKGROUND: Congenital syphilis can cause severe morbidity, including miscarriage and stillbirth, and rates are increasing rapidly within the United States. However, congenital syphilis can be prevented with early detection and treatment of syphilis during pregnancy. Current screening recommendations propose that all women should be screened early in pregnancy, whereas women with elevated risks for congenital syphilis should be screened again later in pregnancy. The rapid increase in congenital syphilis rates suggests that there are still gaps in prenatal syphilis screening. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine associations between the odds of prenatal syphilis screening and sexually transmitted infection history or other patient characteristics across 3 states with elevated rates of congenital syphilis. STUDY DESIGN: We used the Medicaid claims data from Kentucky, Louisiana, and South Carolina for women with deliveries between 2017 and 2021. Within each state, we examined the log-odds of prenatal syphilis screening as a function of the mother's health history, demographic factors, and Medicaid enrollment history. Patient history was established using a 4-year lookback period of the Medicaid claims data; in state A, sexually transmitted infection surveillance data were used to improve the sexually transmitted infection history. RESULTS: The prenatal syphilis screening rates varied by state, ranging from 62.8% to 85.1% of deliveries to women without a recent history of sexually transmitted infections and from 78.1% to 91.1% of deliveries to women with a previous sexually transmitted infection. For the main outcome of syphilis screening at any time during pregnancy, deliveries associated with previous sexually transmitted infections had 1.09 to 1.37 times higher adjusted odds ratios of undergoing screening. Deliveries to women with continuous Medicaid coverage throughout the first trimester also had higher odds of syphilis screening at any time (adjusted odds ratio, 2.45-3.15). Among deliveries to women with a previous sexually transmitted infection, only 53.6% to 63.6% underwent first-trimester screening and this rate was still just 55.0% to 69.5% when considering only deliveries to women with a previous sexually transmitted infection and full first-trimester Medicaid coverage. Fewer delivering women underwent third-trimester screening (20.3%-55.8% of women with previous sexually transmitted infection). Compared with deliveries to White women, deliveries to Black women had lower odds of first-trimester screening (adjusted odds ratio, 0.85 in all states) but higher odds of third-trimester screening (adjusted odds ratio, 1.23-2.03), potentially impacting maternal and birth outcomes. For state A, linkage to surveillance data doubled the rate of detection of a previous sexually transmitted infection because 53.0% of deliveries by women with a previous sexually transmitted infection would not have had sexually transmitted infection history detected using Medicaid claims alone. CONCLUSION: A previous sexually transmitted infection and continuous preconception Medicaid enrollment were associated with higher rates of syphilis screening, but Medicaid claims alone do not fully capture the sexually transmitted infection history of patients. The overall screening rates were lower than would be expected given that all women should undergo prenatal screening, but the rates in the third trimester were particularly low. Of note, there are gaps in early screening for non-Hispanic Black women who had lower odds of first-trimester screening when compared with non-Hispanic White women despite being at elevated risk for syphilis.

The challenges of the family health strategy in the incidence of congenital syphilis in Pernambuco, Brazil, between 2009 to 2018

INTRODUCTION: Syphilis is a health problem and an issue for maternal and child health. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the incidence of congenital syphilis (CS) and its relationship with the Family Health Strategy (FHS) in the state of Pernambuco, between 2009-2018. METHODS: Observational analytical retrospective study with secondary data provided by the Brazilian National Notifiable Diseases System of the Ministry of Health on syphilis infection during pregnancy, congenital syphilis, and FHS coverage information, made available on the e-Gestor AB platform, between 2009-2018. Microsoft Office Excel, JASP 0.14.1.0 and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 25 programs, and Shapiro-Wilk test, Spearman, and Chi-Squared test were used for the organization and analysis of sociodemographic and clinical variables. RESULTS: 11,519 cases of CS were reported in Pernambuco between 2009-2018, with a 12% increase in the FHS coverage rate in the state and 376% growth in the detection rate of CS per thousand live births in the analyzed period. Of the maternal sociodemographic characteristics, there was a higher occurrence of infection in women aged 20 to 29 years (52.76%), black (77.53), and incomplete elementary school or no education (49.56%). In 90.29% of the cases, recent congenital syphilis was identified as the final diagnosis. The analysis also revealed that the greater the FHS coverage in the state, the greater the amount of inadequately performed treatments. CONCLUSION: The analysis of CS cases related to the FHS point to weaknesses in the control and proper treatment of the disease, especially in Black women with low education.

Expanded prenatal syphilis screening in Manitoba, Canada: a direct short-term cost-avoidance analysis in an outbreak context.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to provide a direct short-term cost-avoidance analysis of expanded three-time prenatal syphilis screening in the context of Manitoba's ongoing outbreak. METHODS: A conservative modelling approach increased all financial costs of prenatal screening and minimized the direct costs of congenital syphilis treatment. The cost of syphilis screening was calculated using instrument, reagent and consumable costs as well as laboratory overhead and labour costs as documented by Cadham Provincial Laboratory. The short-term direct costs of treating congenital syphilis were calculated using hospital costs and doctor's billing fees. All costs were calculated in 2021 Canadian dollars. These numbers were applied to Manitoba's 2021 congenital syphilis statistics to provide a pragmatic cost-avoidance analysis. RESULTS: The cost of applying three-time prenatal syphilis screening to all 16,800 yearly pregnancies in Manitoba equalled CAD $139,608.00 per year. The direct short-term cost of treating one uncomplicated case of congenital syphilis was $18,151.40. As 81 cases of congenital syphilis were treated in Manitoba in 2021, the short-term direct cost of treating congenital syphilis in Manitoba in 2021 was $1,470,263.40. Applying screening costs to the 125 adequately prevented cases of congenital syphilis in 2021, the screening program is associated with a cost-avoidance ratio of 16.25. If no prenatal syphilis program existed in Manitoba, an expanded screening program would be associated with a cost-avoidance ratio of 26.8. CONCLUSION: Expanding prenatal syphilis screening is highly cost-avoidant in Manitoba. The 81 cases of congenital syphilis treated in Manitoba in 2021 highlight the need for novel community-based approaches to increase accessibility and engagement with prenatal care.

RéSUMé: OBJECTIF: Dans le contexte de l'éclosion de syphilis qui sévit actuellement au Manitoba, notre étude vise à présenter une analyse des coûts directs à court terme qui pourraient être évités en étendant le dépistage de la syphilis au cours des trois trimestres de la grossesse. MéTHODE: En adoptant une approche de modélisation prudente, nous avons accru tous les coûts financiers du dépistage anténatal et réduit les coûts de traitement directs de la syphilis congénitale. Les coûts de dépistage de la syphilis ont été calculés en utilisant les coûts des instruments, des réactifs et des consommables, ainsi que les frais généraux et les coûts de main-d'œuvre des laboratoires selon le Laboratoire provincial Cadham. Les coûts directs à court terme du traitement de la syphilis congénitale ont été calculés en utilisant les frais hospitaliers et les frais facturés par les médecins. Tous les coûts ont été calculés en dollars canadiens de 2021. Ces chiffres ont été appliqués aux statistiques de 2021 du Manitoba sur la syphilis congénitale pour produire une analyse pragmatique de prévention des coûts. RéSULTATS: Le coût d'étendre le dépistage de la syphilis au cours des trois trimestres de la grossesse aux 16 800 grossesses annuelles au Manitoba représentait 139 608 $ CAN par année. Le coût direct à court terme du traitement d'un cas de syphilis congénitale sans complications était de 18 151,40 $. Étant donné que 81 cas de syphilis congénitale ont été traités au Manitoba en 2021, le coût direct à court terme du traitement de syphilis congénitale dans la province en 2021 s'est élevé à 1 470 263,40 $. En appliquant les coûts de dépistage aux 125 cas de syphilis congénitale que l'on a réussi à prévenir en 2021, le programme de dépistage est associé à un rapport de prévention des coûts de 16,25. S'il n'existait aucun programme de dépistage anténatal de la syphilis au Manitoba, un programme de dépistage élargi serait associé à un rapport de prévention des coûts de 26,8. CONCLUSION: L'expansion du dépistage anténatal de la syphilis serait une mesure de prévention des coûts très efficace au Manitoba. Les 81 cas de syphilis congénitale traités dans la province en 2021 montrent qu'il faut adopter de nouvelles approches de proximité pour améliorer l'accès et la participation aux soins anténatals.

New trends in congenital syphilis: epidemiology, testing in pregnancy, and management.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: In light of alarming increases in the incidence of congenital syphilis in many middle and higher income countries across the globe, this review summarizes recent changes in the epidemiology of syphilis, highlights recommended changes to testing in pregnancy and provides an update for the management of syphilis infection in pregnancy (SIP) and of the infant born to a mother with SIP. RECENT FINDINGS: The re-emergence of congenital syphilis is a result of increasing infectious syphilis in women of childbearing age, which is in turn a result of increasing syphilis in the general population particularly in Indigenous and marginalized populations. Potential reasons for the increase include changing sexual practices and increased travel and migration, as well as factors that limit healthcare access, particularly access to antenatal care and limited awareness and education amongst mothers and maternity services. A single antenatal test for syphilis is insufficient; more frequent testing in pregnancy is necessary even for women deemed to be low risk. The management of SIP and of the newborn is complex and guidelines should be readily available with clear recommendations. SUMMARY: Congenital syphilis is preventable. The current crisis calls for a global and national multipronged, co-ordinated approach involving public health and hospital systems which includes education of individuals and healthcare workers, availability of updated guidelines for prevention and treatment, prioritization of antenatal testing, assurance of accessible and prompt treatment and appropriate assessment and follow-up of infants.

Incidence of congenital syphilis according to inequalities and living conditions in the city of Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil / Incidência de sífilis congênita segundo as desigualdades na condição de vida no município de Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil

Abstract Objectives: to analyze the variation in the incidence rates of congenital syphilis according to the spatial distribution of Life Condition Index (LCI) among neighborhoods in the city of Recife-PE. Methods: an ecological study, developed from 3,234 cases of congenital syphilis notified in the Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (Severe Disease Notification Information System), between 2007 and 2016. LCI was built from seven variables related to the dimensions of the environment, education and income, aggregated at the neighborhood levels and spatially distributed in four strata: very high, high, low and very low. The correlation between the rates of congenital syphilis in the strata and LCI was investigated by applying the Spearman correlation coefficient and demonstrated by means of scatter graphics. Results: the mean rate on disease incidence was 6.8 cases per thousand live births. There was a higher incidence in the strata of very low and low living conditions, as well as in Districts that presented poor sanitary conditions and low schooling for the head of the family (District VII), higher proportion of illiteracy among 10 and 14 year olds (District II) and low income of the head of the household (Districts I, II and VII). Conclusions: this study showed the persistence of health inequalities in areas with worse living conditions.

Resumo Objetivos: analisar a variação das taxas de incidência de sífilis congênita segundo a distribuição espacial do Índice de Condição de Vida (ICV) entre os bairros do município do Recife-PE. Métodos: estudo ecológico, desenvolvido a partir de 3234 casos de sífilis congênita notificados no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação, entre 2007 e 2016. O ICV foi construído a partir de sete variáveis relacionadas as dimensões ambiente, educação e renda, agregadas ao nível dos bairros, e distribuído espacialmente em quatro estratos: muito alto, alto, baixo e muito baixo. A correlação entre as taxas de sífilis congênita nos estratos e o ICV foi investigada aplicando-se o coeficiente de correlação de Spearman e demonstrada por meio de gráficos de dispersão. Resultados: a taxa média de incidência da doença foi de 6,8 casos por mil nascidos vivos. Houve maior incidência nos estratos de condição de vida muito baixa e baixa bem como nos Distritos que apresentaram condições sanitárias ruins e baixa escolaridade do chefe da família (Distrito VII), maior proporção de analfabetismo entre 10 e 14 anos (Distrito II) e baixa renda do chefe do domicílio (Distritos I, II e VII). Conclusões: o estudo evidenciou a persistência das desigualdades de saúde nas áreas com piores condições de vida.

Using Surveillance Data to Respond to an Outbreak of Congenital Syphilis in Arizona Through Third-Trimester Screening Policies, 2017-2018.

INTRODUCTION: The number of congenital syphilis (CS) cases in Arizona quadrupled from an average of 14 cases annually before 2017 to 61 cases in 2018, and a statewide outbreak was declared. The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) analyzed statewide surveillance data to identify missed opportunities for prevention and collaborated with the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) to inform response activities. METHODS: ADHS developed a metric to identify missed opportunities for CS prevention during pregnancy by using medical records, vital records, and case investigation notes for all mothers of infants born with CS from January 1, 2017, through June 30, 2018. AHCCCS conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis to calculate the effect of increasing perinatal syphilis screening. RESULTS: Arizona had 57 cases of CS during the study period, of which 17 (29.8%) could have been prevented through third-trimester screening for women who were in prenatal care but screened late (n = 9), were infected after their first prenatal visit screen (n = 7), or were reinfected after an initial reactive syphilis test and appropriate treatment and not rescreened (n = 1). The estimated net cost of combining the additional primary (screening) and secondary (treatment) costs of a third-trimester screen for all pregnant AHCCCS members and the estimated total per-year savings of all newborn hospitalizations was $527. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Third-trimester syphilis screening could prevent CS in regions where syphilis transmission is high. Partnering with health insurance agencies to evaluate the cost effectiveness of screening recommendations may improve the accuracy of the estimate of the potential cost savings by using insurance agency-specific data for the population at risk for CS.

Who was affected by the shortage of penicillin for syphilis in Rio de Janeiro, 2013-2017?

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the shortage of benzathine penicillin G (BPG), characterizing its temporal evolution and spatial distribution in the city of Rio de Janeiro from 2013 to 2017. METHODS: This ecological study used gestational and congenital syphilis notifications, BPG distribution records, and sociodemographic data from the population of Rio de Janeiro. To quantify the shortage, a BPG supply indicator was estimated per quarter for each neighborhood between 2013 and 2017. Thematic maps were created to identify areas and periods with greater BPG shortage, described according to sociodemographic factors, health services network, and epidemiological features in the incidence of syphilis. RESULTS: BPG shortage in Rio de Janeiro from 2013 to 2017 was not homogeneous in space nor in time. The temporal evolution and spatial distribution of BPG scarcity shows that the shortage affected the inhabitants of the municipality in different ways. Shortage was lower in 2013 and 2016 and more severe in 2014, 2015, and 2017, particularly in neighborhoods within the programmatic areas PA3 and PA5, poorer and with higher prevalence rates of gestational and congenital syphilis. CONCLUSIONS: Analyzing BPG shortage and its temporal evolution and spatial distribution in Rio de Janeiro allowed us to realize that the inhabitants are affected in different ways. Understanding this process contributes to the planning of actions to face shortage crises, minimizing possible impacts on the management of syphilis and reducing inequality in access to treatment.

CONGENITAL SYPHILIS IN THE PARAÍBA VALLEY USING A SPATIAL APPROACH.

OBJECTIVE: To compare spatial patterns of congenital syphilis (CS) with those of socioeconomic and medical variables in Paraíba Valley, São Paulo, between 2012 and 2016. METHODS: Ecological and exploratory study developed using spatial analysis tools, with information on CS cases obtained from official data reports. Rates were found for CS cases per 1,000 live births, number of family health teams and pediatricians available in the health system per 100,000 inhabitants, and social vulnerability index values. Thematic maps were constructed with these variables and compared using TerraView 4.2.2 software. Estimated global Moran (IM) indexes were calculated. In order to detect areas with priority attention regarding the incidence of CS, BoxMaps were developed. The Spearman correlation was estimated for the variable values and compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. P <0.05 was significant. RESULTS: 144,613 births and 870 CS cases (6.04/1000 live births) occurred during the study period. The average value of CS rates per municipality was 4.0±4.1, (0.0-17.6/1000 live births). Higher CS rates occurred in municipalities of the Upper Vale do Paraíba, contrary to the proportions of pediatricians who were in the far east of the region. The thematic maps of the variables presented a mosaic aspect, which characterized the random distribution of the variables. The IM were not significant. No significant correlation was found between the variables. The BoxMap identified eight municipalities with high CS rates. CONCLUSIONS: Even though it was not possible to identify a spatial pattern of CS rates, it was shown that eight municipalities deserve the attention of city managers.

Desigualdades na tendência da sífilis congênita no município de Niterói, Brasil, 2007 a 2016 / Inequalities in congenital syphilis trends in the city of Niterói, Brazil, 2007-2016 / Desigualdades en la tendencia de sífilis congénita en la ciudad de Niterói, Brasil, 2007-2016

RESUMO Objetivo. Descrever a distribuição temporal e as características epidemiológicas da sífilis congênita (SC) em Niterói, Sudeste do Brasil, de 2007 a 2016. Métodos. Este estudo descritivo de série temporal da incidência de SC utilizou os dados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) e do Sistema de Informações sobre Nascidos Vivos (SINASC). A amostra incluiu todos os casos notificados. Além disso, foi realizado um relacionamento probabilístico entre SINAN e SINASC para recuperar informações ignoradas. A série temporal foi estimada por regressão logarítmica, de acordo com variáveis sociodemográficas e de pré-natal. Resultados. Identificaram-se 754 casos de SC no período estudado (incidência média de 11,9 casos/1 000 nascidos vivos). A incidência foi mais elevada em jovens (10 a 19 anos; 20 a 24 anos), participantes de cor preta e naquelas com baixa escolaridade e sem pré-natal. Do total de mulheres, apenas 57,6% obtiveram o diagnóstico de sífilis durante o pré-natal. O tratamento foi inadequado em 87,7% das mulheres. Apenas 12,2% dos parceiros foram tratados. Houve tendência crescente do agravo (16%/ano), que atingiu 23,2 casos/1 000 nascidos vivos em 2016. O crescimento foi mais acentuado em adolescentes do sexo feminino (25,2%/ano), raça/cor parda (16,8%/ano), indivíduos com baixa escolaridade (57,1%/ano) e mulheres que realizaram pré-natal (17,3%/ano); e, no período de 2012 a 2016, em mulheres com informação ignorada para a cor da pele. Conclusões. As iniquidades sociais se destacaram na ocorrência de SC, com incidência crescente em jovens. É necessária a capacitação dos profissionais de saúde para o manejo da sífilis gestacional e uma atuação efetiva das políticas públicas sobre os determinantes sociais da sífilis.(AU)

ABSTRACT Objective. To describe the temporal distribution and epidemiologic characteristics of congenital syphilis (CS) cases in the city of Niterói, southeastern Brazil, from 2007 to 2016. Method. This descriptive time series analysis of the incidence of CS used data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) and the Live Birth Information System (SINASC). The sample included all notified cases. A probabilistic matching was performed between SINAN and SINASC data to recover ignored information. The time series was estimated using logarithmic regression according to sociodemographic and prenatal care variables. Results. There were 754 identified cases of CS in the study period (mean incidence: 11.9 cases/1 000 live births). The incidence was higher in younger women (10 to 19; 20 to 24 years) and in those with black skin, low schooling, and without prenatal care. Of the overall group, only 57.6% received a diagnosis of syphilis during prenatal care. Treatment was not adequate in 87,7%, and only 12.2% of partners were treated. SC incidence presented a growing trend of 16%/year, reaching 23.2 cases/1 000 living births in 2016. This growth was especially marked in female adolescents (25.2%/year), brown race/skin color (16.8%/year), women with low schooling (57.1%/year) and women who received prenatal care (17.3%/year); and, from 2012 to 2016, in women without information on skin color. Conclusions. Social inequalities were linked to CS in the present sample. Also, increasing CS incidence was detected in youth. Health care professionals must be trained to manage gestational syphilis, and public policies must effectively address the social determinants of this condition.(AU)

RESUMEN Objetivo. Describir la distribución temporal y las características epidemiológicas de la sífilis congénita en Niterói, sureste de Brasil, de 2007 a 2016. Métodos. Estudio descriptivo de series temporales sobre la incidencia de la sífilis congénita; se utilizaron datos del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades Notificables (SINAN) y del Sistema de Información de Nacimientos Vivos (SINASC). La muestra incluyó todos los casos reportados. Se realizó además una relación probabilística entre el SINAN y el SINASC para recuperar información ignorada. La serie temporal se estimó mediante regresión logarítmica, según variables sociodemográficas y prenatales. Resultados. En el período estudiado se identificaron 754 casos de sífilis congénita (incidencia media de 11,9 casos/1 000 nacidos vivos). La incidencia fue mayor en las mujeres jóvenes (10-19, 20-24 años), mujeres de raza negra, con baja escolaridad y sin atención prenatal. Del total de mujeres, sólo se realizó el diagnóstico de sífilis durante la atención prenatal en 57,6%. El tratamiento fue inadecuado en 87,7% de las mujeres, solo el 12,2% de las parejas fueron tratadas. La enfermedad presentó una tendencia creciente (16%/año), y alcanzó 23,2 casos/1 000 nacidos vivos en 2016. El aumento fue más pronunciado en las adolescentes (25,2%/año), raza/color de piel morena (16.8%/año), mujeres con baja educación (57,1%/año), mujeres que recibieron atención prenatal (17,3%/año) y, de 2012 a 2016, en mujeres sin información sobre el color de la piel. Conclusiones. En esta muestra se destacaron las desigualdades sociales en la aparición de sífilis congénita, con una incidencia creciente en las jóvenes. Se requiere capacitación de los profesionales de la salud en el manejo de la sífilis gestacional y la acción efectiva de políticas públicas sobre los determinantes sociales de la sífilis.(AU)

Congenital syphilis in the paraíba valley using a spatial approach / Sífilis congênita no vale do paraíba sob enfoque espacial

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare spatial patterns of congenital syphilis (CS) with those of socioeconomic and medical variables in Paraíba Valley, São Paulo, between 2012 and 2016. Methods: Ecological and exploratory study developed using spatial analysis tools, with information on CS cases obtained from official data reports. Rates were found for CS cases per 1,000 live births, number of family health teams and pediatricians available in the health system per 100,000 inhabitants, and social vulnerability index values. Thematic maps were constructed with these variables and compared using TerraView 4.2.2 software. Estimated global Moran (IM) indexes were calculated. In order to detect areas with priority attention regarding the incidence of CS, BoxMaps were developed. The Spearman correlation was estimated for the variable values and compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. P <0.05 was significant. Results: 144,613 births and 870 CS cases (6.04/1000 live births) occurred during the study period. The average value of CS rates per municipality was 4.0±4.1, (0.0-17.6/1000 live births). Higher CS rates occurred in municipalities of the Upper Vale do Paraíba, contrary to the proportions of pediatricians who were in the far east of the region. The thematic maps of the variables presented a mosaic aspect, which characterized the random distribution of the variables. The IM were not significant. No significant correlation was found between the variables. The BoxMap identified eight municipalities with high CS rates. Conclusions: Even though it was not possible to identify a spatial pattern of CS rates, it was shown that eight municipalities deserve the attention of city managers.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar padrões espaciais da sífilis congênita (SC) com os de variáveis socioeconômicas e médicas no Vale do Paraíba paulista nos anos de 2012 a 2016. Métodos: Estudo ecológico e exploratório, utilizando ferramentas da análise espacial, com informações sobre casos de SC obtidas do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) e criadas taxas de casos de SC por 1.000 nascidos vivos (NV), de números de Equipes de Saúde da Família e de pediatras atendendo na rede por 100 mil habitantes e de valores do índice de vulnerabilidade social. Foram construídos mapas temáticos com essas taxas, para comparação entre elas, por meio do programa TerraView 4.2.2, e estimaram-se índices de Moran global (IM) para essas variáveis. Para detectar áreas com prioridade de atenção para a incidência de SC, foi construído Box Map. Estipulou-se a correlação de Spearman para os valores das variáveis, os quais foram comparados pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis. Adotou-se erro alfa=5%. Resultados: Ocorreram 144.613 nascimentos no período e 870 casos de SC (6,04/1.000 NV); o valor médio das taxas por município foi de 4,0±4,1 (0,0-17,6/1.000 NV). Maiores taxas de SC ocorreram em municípios do Alto Vale do Paraíba, ao contrário das maiores proporções de pediatras, que se encontravam no extremo leste da região. Os mapas temáticos das variáveis apresentaram aspecto de mosaico, que caracteriza distribuição aleatória das variáveis, e os IM não foram significativos. Não houve correlação significativa entre as variáveis, e o Box Map identificou oito municípios que apresentavam altas taxas de SC. Conclusões: Não houve semelhanças entre os padrões espaciais das taxas de SC e demais variáveis, mas identificaram-se oito municípios que merecem atenção dos gestores municipais.

Who was affected by the shortage of penicillin for syphilis in Rio de Janeiro, 2013-2017? / A quem afetou o desabastecimento de penicilina para sífilis no Rio de Janeiro, 2013-2017?

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To analyze the shortage of benzathine penicillin G (BPG), characterizing its temporal evolution and spatial distribution in the city of Rio de Janeiro from 2013 to 2017. METHODS This ecological study used gestational and congenital syphilis notifications, BPG distribution records, and sociodemographic data from the population of Rio de Janeiro. To quantify the shortage, a BPG supply indicator was estimated per quarter for each neighborhood between 2013 and 2017. Thematic maps were created to identify areas and periods with greater BPG shortage, described according to sociodemographic factors, health services network, and epidemiological features in the incidence of syphilis. RESULTS BPG shortage in Rio de Janeiro from 2013 to 2017 was not homogeneous in space nor in time. The temporal evolution and spatial distribution of BPG scarcity shows that the shortage affected the inhabitants of the municipality in different ways. Shortage was lower in 2013 and 2016 and more severe in 2014, 2015, and 2017, particularly in neighborhoods within the programmatic areas PA3 and PA5, poorer and with higher prevalence rates of gestational and congenital syphilis. CONCLUSIONS Analyzing BPG shortage and its temporal evolution and spatial distribution in Rio de Janeiro allowed us to realize that the inhabitants are affected in different ways. Understanding this process contributes to the planning of actions to face shortage crises, minimizing possible impacts on the management of syphilis and reducing inequality in access to treatment.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Analisar o desabastecimento da penicilina benzatina (PB), caracterizando sua evolução temporal e distribuição espacial no município do Rio de Janeiro de 2013 a 2017. MÉTODOS Trata-se de estudo ecológico misto realizado com notificações de sífilis gestacional e congênita, registros de distribuição de PB e de dados sociodemográficos da população dos bairros do município do Rio de Janeiro. Para mensurar o desabastecimento foi calculado por trimestre um indicador de abastecimento de PB para cada bairro, entre 2013 e 2017. Mapas temáticos foram produzidos para identificar áreas e períodos com maior desabastecimento de PB, o qual foi descrito segundo condições sociodemográficas, rede de serviços de saúde e aspectos epidemiológicos da incidência de sífilis por bairro. RESULTADOS O desabastecimento de PB no município do Rio de Janeiro, no período de 2013 a 2017, não foi homogêneo no espaço ou no tempo. A evolução temporal e a distribuição espacial da escassez de PB revelam que o desabastecimento afetou de formas distintas os habitantes do município, sendo menor em 2013 e 2016 e mais intenso em 2014, 2015 e 2017, principalmente nos bairros das áreas programáticas AP3 e AP5, mais pobres e com maiores taxas de sífilis gestacional e congênita. CONCLUSÕES Analisar o desabastecimento de PB e sua evolução temporal e distribuição espacial no município do Rio de Janeiro permitiu reconhecer que os habitantes do município são afetados de diferentes modos. Compreender esse processo ajuda a planejar ações para enfrentar crises de desabastecimento, minimizando possíveis impactos no controle da sífilis, além de reduzir a desigualdade no acesso ao tratamento.

Factors associated with inadequate follow-up of children with congenital syphilis.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze factors associated with outpatient follow-up of children with congenital syphilis. METHODS: A non-concurrent cohort study performed in primary care units and three reference maternity hospitals in Fortaleza (Ceará State). Data were collected from September 2013 to September 2016 in the notification forms and in the medical records of hospitalization and outpatient follow-up, and they were presented considering an adequate and inadequate follow-up. Children who attended the primary care unit or referral outpatient clinic during the period recommended by the Ministry of Health were considered adequately followed up and performed the recommended examinations. Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used in the comparative analysis. The estimated risk of adequate non-follow-up was verified by simple and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS: The total of 460 children with congenital syphilis were notified, of which 332 (72.2%) returned for at least one appointment and were part of the study. Exactly 287 (86.4%) children attended the primary health unit; however, there was no reference to congenital syphilis in 236 (71.1%) medical records and no information on the venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) test was found in 264 (79.5%) children. There was nonadherence to subsequent appointments by 272 (81.9%) individuals. The following variables had a statistically significant association with the non-adequate follow-up of the children: marital status of the mothers, number of prenatal appointments, number of pregnancies, blood count, and radiography of long bones. CONCLUSIONS: Most children with congenital syphilis attended primary care for follow-up, but the services do not meet the recommendations of the Brazilian Ministry of Health for adequate follow-up.

The QualiRede intervention: improving the performance of care continuum in HIV, congenital syphilis, and hepatitis C in health regions.

INTRODUCTION: Care continuum models have supported recent strategies against sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV and Hepatitis C (HCV). METHODS: HIV, HCV, and congenital syphilis care continuum models were developed, including all stages of care, from promotion/prevention to clinical control/cure. The models supported the intervention QualiRede, developed by a University-Brazilian National Health System (SUS) partnership focused on managers and other professionals from six priority health regions in São Paulo and Santa Catarina. Indicators were selected for each stage of the care continuum from the SUS information systems and from the Qualiaids and QualiAB facility's process evaluation questionnaires. The indicators acted as the technical basis of two workshops with professionals and managers in each region: the first one to identify problems and to create a Regional Technical Group; and the second one to design action plans for improving regional performance. RESULTS: The indicators are available at www.qualirede.org. The workshops took place in the regions of Alto Tietê, Baixada Santista, Grande ABC, and Registro (São Paulo) and of Foz do Rio Itajaí (Santa Catarina), which resulted in regional action plans in São Paulo, but not in Santa Catarina. A lack of awareness was observed regarding the new HIV and HCV protocols, as well as an incipient use of indicators in routine practices. CONCLUSION: Improving the performance of the care continuum requires appropriation of performance indicators and coordination of care flows at local, regional, and state levels of management.

Factors associated with prenatal care and HIV and syphilis testing during pregnancy in primary health care.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the factors associated with HIV and syphilis testing during pregnancy in Brazil. METHODS: This was an ecological study covering all Brazilian municipalities evaluated by the second cycle of the National Program for Access and Quality Improvement in Primary Care, 2013-2014. The dependent variables were based on prenatal care access: prenatal care appointments, and HIV and syphilis tests during prenatal care. The independent variables were compared with demographic and social characteristics. Bivariate analysis was performed assessing the three outcomes with the independent variables. Variables with significant associations in this bivariate analysis were fit in a Poisson multiple regression analysis with robust variance to obtain adjusted estimates. RESULT: Poisson regression analysis showed a statistically significant association with the variables "less than eight years of study" [prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.31; 95%CI 1.19-1.45; p < 0.001] and "participants of the cash transfer program" (PR = 0.80; 95%CI 0.72-0.88; p < 0.001) for the outcome of "having less than six prenatal care appointments" and individual variables. A statistically significant association was found for "participants of the cash transfer program" (PR = 1.43; 95%CI 1.19-1.72; p < 0.001) regarding the outcome from the comparison between HIV testing absence during prenatal care and demographic and social characteristics. The absence of syphilis testing during prenatal care, and demographic and social characteristics presented a statistically significant association for the education level variable "less than eight years of study" (PR =1.75; 95%CI 1.56-1.96; p < 0.001) and "participants of the cash transfer program" (PR = 1.21, 95%CI 1.07-1.36; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The individual factors were associated with prenatal care appointments and HIV and syphilis tests in Brazilian pregnant women. They show missed opportunities for diagnosing HIV and syphilis infection during prenatal care and indicate weaknesses in the quality of maternal health care services to eliminate mother-to-child transmission.

Global burden of maternal and congenital syphilis and associated adverse birth outcomes-Estimates for 2016 and progress since 2012.

BACKGROUND: In 2007 the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the global initiative to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of syphilis (congenital syphilis, or CS). To assess progress towards the goal of <50 CS cases per 100,000 live births, we generated regional and global estimates of maternal and congenital syphilis for 2016 and updated the 2012 estimates. METHODS: Maternal syphilis estimates were generated using the Spectrum-STI model, fitted to sentinel surveys and routine testing of pregnant women during antenatal care (ANC) and other representative population data. Global and regional estimates of CS used the same approach as previous WHO estimates. RESULTS: The estimated global maternal syphilis prevalence in 2016 was 0.69% (95% confidence interval: 0.57-0.81%) resulting in a global CS rate of 473 (385-561) per 100,000 live births and 661,000 (538,000-784,000) total CS cases, including 355,000 (290,000-419,000) adverse birth outcomes (ABO) and 306,000 (249,000-363,000) non-clinical CS cases (infants without clinical signs born to un-treated mothers). The ABOs included 143,000 early fetal deaths and stillbirths, 61,000 neonatal deaths, 41,000 preterm or low-birth weight births, and 109,000 infants with clinical CS. Of these ABOs- 203,000 (57%) occurred in pregnant women attending ANC but not screened for syphilis; 74,000 (21%) in mothers not enrolled in ANC, 55,000 (16%) in mothers screened but not treated, and 23,000 (6%) in mothers enrolled, screened and treated. The revised 2012 estimates were 0.70% (95% CI: 0.63-0.77%) maternal prevalence, and 748,000 CS cases (539 per 100,000 live births) including 397,000 (361,000-432,000) ABOs. The estimated decrease in CS case rates between 2012 and 2016 reflected increased access to ANC and to syphilis screening and treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Congenital syphilis decreased worldwide between 2012 and 2016, although maternal prevalence was stable. Achieving global CS elimination, however, will require improving access to early syphilis screening and treatment in ANC, clinically monitoring all women diagnosed with syphilis and their infants, improving partner management, and reducing syphilis prevalence in the general population by expanding testing, treatment and partner referral beyond ANC.

Factors associated with prenatal care and HIV and syphilis testing during pregnancy in primary health care

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate the factors associated with HIV and syphilis testing during pregnancy in Brazil. METHODS This was an ecological study covering all Brazilian municipalities evaluated by the second cycle of the National Program for Access and Quality Improvement in Primary Care, 2013-2014. The dependent variables were based on prenatal care access: prenatal care appointments, and HIV and syphilis tests during prenatal care. The independent variables were compared with demographic and social characteristics. Bivariate analysis was performed assessing the three outcomes with the independent variables. Variables with significant associations in this bivariate analysis were fit in a Poisson multiple regression analysis with robust variance to obtain adjusted estimates. RESULT Poisson regression analysis showed a statistically significant association with the variables "less than eight years of study" [prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.31; 95%CI 1.19-1.45; p < 0.001] and "participants of the cash transfer program" (PR = 0.80; 95%CI 0.72-0.88; p < 0.001) for the outcome of "having less than six prenatal care appointments" and individual variables. A statistically significant association was found for "participants of the cash transfer program" (PR = 1.43; 95%CI 1.19-1.72; p < 0.001) regarding the outcome from the comparison between HIV testing absence during prenatal care and demographic and social characteristics. The absence of syphilis testing during prenatal care, and demographic and social characteristics presented a statistically significant association for the education level variable "less than eight years of study" (PR =1.75; 95%CI 1.56-1.96; p < 0.001) and "participants of the cash transfer program" (PR = 1.21, 95%CI 1.07-1.36; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The individual factors were associated with prenatal care appointments and HIV and syphilis tests in Brazilian pregnant women. They show missed opportunities for diagnosing HIV and syphilis infection during prenatal care and indicate weaknesses in the quality of maternal health care services to eliminate mother-to-child transmission.

Factors associated with inadequate follow-up of children with congenital syphilis / Fatores associados ao seguimento não adequado de crianças com sífilis congênita

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To analyze factors associated with outpatient follow-up of children with congenital syphilis. METHODS A non-concurrent cohort study performed in primary care units and three reference maternity hospitals in Fortaleza (Ceará State). Data were collected from September 2013 to September 2016 in the notification forms and in the medical records of hospitalization and outpatient follow-up, and they were presented considering an adequate and inadequate follow-up. Children who attended the primary care unit or referral outpatient clinic during the period recommended by the Ministry of Health were considered adequately followed up and performed the recommended examinations. Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used in the comparative analysis. The estimated risk of adequate non-follow-up was verified by simple and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS The total of 460 children with congenital syphilis were notified, of which 332 (72.2%) returned for at least one appointment and were part of the study. Exactly 287 (86.4%) children attended the primary health unit; however, there was no reference to congenital syphilis in 236 (71.1%) medical records and no information on the venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) test was found in 264 (79.5%) children. There was nonadherence to subsequent appointments by 272 (81.9%) individuals. The following variables had a statistically significant association with the non-adequate follow-up of the children: marital status of the mothers, number of prenatal appointments, number of pregnancies, blood count, and radiography of long bones. CONCLUSIONS Most children with congenital syphilis attended primary care for follow-up, but the services do not meet the recommendations of the Brazilian Ministry of Health for adequate follow-up.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Analisar fatores associados ao seguimento ambulatorial não adequado de crianças notificadas com sífilis congênita. MÉTODOS Estudo de coorte não concorrente, realizado em unidades de atenção primária e três maternidades de referência de Fortaleza (Ceará). Os dados foram coletados de setembro de 2013 a setembro de 2016 nas fichas de notificação e nos prontuários médicos de internamento e de seguimento ambulatorial, e apresentados considerando o seguimento adequado e não adequado. Foram consideradas adequadamente seguidas as crianças que compareceram à unidade de atenção primária ou ao ambulatório de referência no período recomendado pelo Ministério da Saúde e realizaram os exames preconizados. Utilizou-se os testes qui-quadrado de Pearson e exato de Fisher na análise comparativa. O risco estimado de não seguimento adequado foi verificado por regressão logística simples e múltipla. RESULTADOS Foram notificadas 460 crianças com sífilis congênita, das quais 332 (72,2%) retornaram para pelo menos uma consulta e fizeram parte do estudo. Compareceram à unidade primária de saúde 287 (86,4%) crianças; entretanto, não havia referência à sífilis congênita em 236 (71,1%) prontuários e não foram encontradas informações acerca da solicitação do exame venereal disease research laboratory (VDRL) em 264 (79,5%). Houve não adesão às consultas subsequentes por parte de 272 (81,9%) indivíduos. As seguintes variáveis apresentaram associação estatisticamente significativa com o seguimento não adequado das crianças: estado civil das genitoras, número de consultas no pré-natal, número de gestações, hemograma e radiografia de ossos longos. CONCLUSÕES A maioria das crianças notificadas com sífilis congênita comparecem à atenção primária para seguimento, porém os serviços não atendem às recomendações do Ministério da Saúde para o seguimento adequado.