CHALLENGES IN THE ERADICATION OF CONGENITAL SYPHILIS: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Congenital syphilis (CS), resulting from fetal infection by Treponema pallidum, is an ancient disease that continues to affect neonates worldwide, being a significant cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. It represents one of the main global public health problems due to its high prevalence and incidence rates annually. Undoubtedly, one of the essential approaches to its control is adequate prenatal care and early diagnosis of exposed newborns. Therefore, this study aims to determine the epidemiological profile of congenital syphilis in a macro-region of the State of Paraná through a descriptive analysis of prenatal care indicators, maternal sociodemographic data, and neonate records, using data provided by the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). The results of this investigation provide relevant parameters for the formulation of more effective and targeted health policies, in order to propose strategies for the prevention and control of cases.