How common is syphilis?
In the United States, health officials reported over 32,000 cases of syphilis in 2002. The incidence of infectious syphilis was highest in women 20 to 24 years of age and in men 35 to 39 years of age.
Currently, there is very little information on the number South Asians in the United States that are experiencing STIs. Information that is available shows that STIs are a health concern for all communities, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, education, income, culture, or religion. It is important to note that shame, stigma, and fear surrounding STIs make communities, including South Asians, particularly vulnerable as it prevents people from getting informed, tested, and treated. It also keeps people from speaking openly and honestly to their doctors and partners.
For information on STIs and South Asian communities, read about the research that is available.
What are the symptoms?
Early signs of syphilis include a painless, red sore. Sores appear on the body in areas that have been exposed to the infection, such as genitals, anus, tongue and throat. Symptoms continue over months, followed by a fever, sore throat, headache, joint pain, and lack of hunger. A scaly rash develops on the palms of hands and the soles of feet. After these initial symptoms have passed, there may not be any symptoms for a period of time, sometime years, where the infection is latent (no visible or external symptoms). Left untreated, syphilis infection damages the brain, spinal cord, heart and other organs.