Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a subject that makes many of us cringe. Yet they are on the rise, especially in the era of hookup apps and healthy aging.
For example, Syphilis cases are on the rise in North Carolina. Cases of syphilis among women jumped 133% between 2019 and 2022, with a 28% increase in congenital syphilis cases in 2023!
Syphilis can affect anyone but is currently rising in women, and in men who have sex with women. This has led to an alarming increase in cases of congenital syphilis.
"Congenital syphilis is a completely preventable infection with devastating consequences," said State Health Director and NCDHHS Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Elizabeth Cuervo Tilson. "It will take a data-driven and collaborative effort to reverse this trend and ensure people are getting the care they need."
As of Feb. 1, 2024, the Medicaid reimbursement rate has been increased to reflect the updated costs of the medication Bicillin L-A, which can be used to treat syphilis and is the only known effective treatment for preventing congenital syphilis.
Syphilis is easy to treat and can be prevented!
Rap DKTA D, (a.k.a. Shannon Dowler, MD https://www.shannondowlermd.com/ former Chief Medical Officer of NC Medicaid) joins the Healthcare Insights in Northwest North Carolina podcast to destigmatize conversations about sex, safe sex, protecting health, infections, symptoms, and treatments. Listen to the episode below or search "Healthcare Insights in Northwest North Carolina" and look for episode 100 wherever you get your podcasts.
And check out Rap Dkta D in her latest rap video production:
Treponema Pallidum image: Flickr www.flickr.com/photos/niaid/53150221647