By Andrew Davis
Chicago Department of Public Health ( CDPH ) officials held a press conference May 16 at the 31st Street Speciality Clinic, 530 E. 31st, to discuss the city's latest syphilis statistics. While the current news is not especially good—the numbers have risen markedly in some cases—the speakers held out hope and offered solutions to an escalating problem.
Dr. Will Wong, medical director of the STD/HIV Prevention and Care Program, delivered some sobering numbers. 'Last year, there were 418 reported infectious syphilis cases in the city of Chicago, which represents a 41 percent increase from the total number of cases in 2004,' he said. 'This increase is largely driven by increases in syphilis among men who have sex with men ( MSM ) . The proportion of syphilis cases among MSM has increased by 87 percent, and now account for 73 percent of infectious syphilis cases—up from 54 percent of cases in 2004.'
Wong cited repeat infection, especially among MSM, as one possible cause for the statistical increase. He also stated that half of the men who tested positive reported anonymous sex partners—making partner notification difficult, if not impossible.
Syphilis can be treated easily enough with penicillin, Wong added. However, he noted that lack of proper treatment can lead to various ailments, including blindness, dementia and neurological damage. He urged people to see a medical professional as soon as possible if they suspect they have syphilis.
Dr. Terry Mason, CDPH commissioner, added that people need to exercise common sense. 'If people want to make a difference, people are going to have to start using some sort of barrier ( such as a condom ) and we have to make sure that people are being a bit more responsible regarding who they have sex with.
Wong said that, although numbers have increased, people should not yet think that an epidemic is afoot.
See www.GetTestedChicago.com or call ( 800 ) 243-AIDS for more information.