EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF GESTATIONAL SYPHILIS: INCIDENCE, PREVALENCE, AND IMPLICATIONS FOR MASTERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH IN THE MUNICIPALITY OJ JUAZEIRO-BA, BRAZIL, FROM 2019 TO 2024

Abstract

Syphilis is an infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, transmitted mainly through sexual contact, and also as gestational syphilis when it occurs during pregnancy. Its high potential for vertical transmission can lead to congenital syphilis, associated with premature birth, serious sequelae, and even fetal death, constituting a relevant public health problem, despite being preventable and treatable. This study analyzed the epidemiological profile and trend of gestational and congenital syphilis cases in Juazeiro (BA), between 2019 and 2024, seeking to identify failures and factors related to the persistence of the infection. This is an observational, descriptive, and retrospective epidemiological study with a quantitative approach, using secondary data from SINAN and SIM, organized in Microsoft Excel. 460 cases of gestational syphilis were reported, with an increase until 2022 and a subsequent decrease, possibly influenced by underreporting. One hundred cases of congenital syphilis were recorded, with the highest occurrence in 2020. Pregnant women aged 20 to 39 were most affected, followed by adolescents, and although 91% had prenatal care, a significant portion of their partners did not receive treatment. Low levels of education and incomplete records were frequent. It is concluded that gestational and congenital syphilis remains a challenge in the municipality, demanding professional training, more efficient surveillance, and strengthened preventive actions to reduce vertical transmission.