USPSTF: Routine syphilis screening recommended for all pregnant women

November 21, 2024

On November 19, 2024, USPSTF released a draft recommendation urging that all pregnant individuals be screened for syphilis as early as possible in their pregnancy, assigning the guidance an "A" grade. Untreated syphilis can lead to congenital syphilis, which poses serious risks to infants, including premature birth, vision or hearing loss, and even death. Task Force member Dr. Carlos Jaén emphasized that cases of congenital syphilis have surged tenfold over the past decade, highlighting the effectiveness of early screening in improving health outcomes for both mothers and babies.

The Task Force also noted that certain racial and ethnic groups, particularly Black, Hispanic, and Native American/Alaska Native individuals, are disproportionately affected by syphilis, being eight times more likely to have babies born with congenital syphilis. These disparities are attributed to social and structural factors that impact health access and behaviors. Dr. Michael Silverstein, vice chair of the Task Force, stated that nearly 90% of congenital syphilis cases could be prevented with timely testing and treatment, underscoring the need to eliminate barriers to care to ensure equitable access to screening and treatment for all pregnant individuals.

Source:

USPSTF. (2024, November 19). U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Issues Draft Recommendation Statement on Screening for Syphilis in Pregnancy. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/sites/default/files/file/supporting_documents/syphilis-pregnancy-draft-rec-bulletin.pdf