What is the incidence of syphilis in Latin America and the Caribbean?

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has updated regional syphilis estimates for the Americas. An estimated 4.2 million new syphilis cases occurred in 2024 - 500,000 more than in 2022 - representing a 15% increase. Ninety percent of these new cases were concentrated in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Moreover, the estimated syphilis prevalence in pregnant women in LAC has been rising steadely, with estimated prevalence reaching 2,1% in 2024, up from 1,4% in 2019.

To reverse this trend and move toward the elimination of syphilis and congenital syphilis in LAC, actions must focus on:

• Preventing sexual transmission of the disease through the correct use of condoms.
• Ensuring adequate prenatal care, including screening at the first prenatal visit, which provides the opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment during pregnancy to prevent congenital syphilis.
• Treating and providing appropriate follow-up care for newborns diagnosed with congenital syphilis.