THE PREVALENCE OF SYPHILIS CASES IN ADOLESCENTS IN PIAUÍ BETWEEN 2010 AND 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Syphilis among adolescents has been increasing in recent decades and constitutes a public health problem, especially in regions with socioeconomic vulnerabilities and unequal coverage of health services. This study describes the situation in the state of Piauí between 2010 and 2024, highlighting social determinants and failures in notification systems. Objective: To describe the prevalence and temporal trend of syphilis in adolescents (10–19 years) in Piauí (2010–2024) and identify factors associated with transmission, aiming to support prevention and control strategies. Methods: Ecological, descriptive, time-series study using data from syphilis notifications in adolescents (SINAN/TabNet-DATASUS) and socioeconomic indicators (CEPRO) and Family Health Strategy coverage (IEPS). Annual detection coefficients were calculated; the trend was evaluated by Prais-Winsten regression and correlations by Spearman. Data treatment and processing were performed in Stata® v.16 and Excel®. Results: A significant increase in cases among adolescents was observed from 2014 (10 cases) to 2019 (peak of 99 cases), a decrease in 2020 (44 cases), and a resumption in 2021–2023 (60; 57; 53 cases, respectively). The distribution by sex was similar (51.7% male; 48.3% female). Adolescents with secondary education and the mixed-race population predominated (66% of cases in 2023). Low notification was recorded among indigenous and Asian populations, and a high proportion of "not informed" fields was observed, suggesting incompleteness of records. Socioeconomic indicators and unequal coverage of the Family Health Strategy showed an association with higher detection coefficients. Conclusion: Syphilis among adolescents in Piauí increased markedly until 2019, experienced a temporary reduction, possibly due to underreporting during the pandemic, and then increased again. Social factors, low educational attainment, and gaps in primary care contribute to transmission and the risk of congenital syphilis. Expansion of rapid testing, improvement of basic healthcare services, and integration between prenatal care and adolescent health services are recommended.