The global elimination of congenital syphilis: rationale and strategy for action

Overview

Syphilis remains a global problem with an estimated 12 million people infected each year, despite the existence of effective prevention measures, such as condoms, and effective and relatively inexpensive treatment options.

The overarching global goal of the present strategy is the elimination of congenital syphilis as a public health problem. This would be achieved through reduction of prevalence of syphilis in pregnant women and by the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of syphilis.

This document is aimed at policy-makers in countries and in multilateral organizations, as well as other stakeholders, donors and foundations involved in international health. It provides the background and rationale for international and national strategies for the elimination of congenital syphilis. As a first step, short-term and long-term goals and targets need to be agreed upon, and the strategy – which is simple and feasible – needs to be implemented.