Aspects of the Epidemiological Dynamics of Acquired Syphilis and Gestational Syphilis Between 2010 and 2021 in a State of the Northeast Region of Brazil

Abstract

To characterize the epidemiological dynamics of acquired syphilis and gestational syphilis in the state of Maranhão, between 2010 and 2021. Methods: Confirmed cases of acquired syphilis between 2010 and 2021 and of gestational syphilis between 2010 and 2020, in the state of Maranhão, available by the Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) were analyzed. Results: The year 2018 had the highest number of reports of acquired syphilis (1.787 cases; p < 0.0001). The municipality of Duque Bacelar (East Mesoregion) had the highest incidence rate (285.5 per 100,000 inhabitants), for acquired syphilis, in the triennium 2016 to 2018. Regarding gestational syphilis, the year 2018 also stood out (1,892 cases; p < 0.0001) as the one with the highest number of records. The municipality of Buriticupu (West Mesoregion) had the highest detection rate of gestational syphilis (42.4 per 1,000 live births) in the biennium 2019 and 2020. Conclusions: The data presented showed municipalities with higher rates of acquired syphilis and gestational syphilis, concentrating located respectively in the East and West Mesoregions of the state of Maranhão. The findings obtained in the present study gather useful information for monitoring areas with a high incidence of the disease, thus contributing to the discussion and implementation of effective strategies to reduce cases.