Epidemiological profile of acquired syphilis in adolescence in Brazil, 2013 and 2023

Abstract

Objective: To identify the epidemiological profile of syphilis in adolescents in Brazil between 2013 and 2023. Methods: This is an observational and descriptive study with a quantitative approach, guided by the question: Is there evidence that cases of syphilis in adolescence in Brazil have increased? Data were analyzed using graphs and absolute and relative frequencies. Results: Regarding the tabulated data, the highest incidence of syphilis cases was in 2023 with 72.51 (n=21,505), in the southern region with 67.93 (n=30,732), and in the non-indigenous/white educational level with 13.74 (n=47,909), followed by incomplete secondary education with 8.76 (n=30,537). The lowest rates were in 2013 9.97 (n=3,380), the Central-West region 2.89 (n=10,074) and educational level not applicable 0.02 (n=82), followed by illiterate 0.10 (n=352). Conclusion: It is concluded that cases of acquired syphilis among adolescents have increased significantly, reinforcing the need for effective prevention strategies, sex education and increased access to early diagnosis.