Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI), has experienced a concerning resurgence in recent years throughout Alberta, including Edmonton and Calgary and smaller towns such as Banff and Canmore. This blog post aims to shed light on the syphilis outbreak, explore its causes, and highlight the importance of awareness, prevention, and early detection in combating the spread of this infectious disease.

The Rising Tide of Syphilis

Syphilis was once considered a rare and nearly eradicated disease, thanks to the widespread use of antibiotics. However, in the past decade, the incidence of syphilis has been steadily increasing worldwide, and Alberta has not been immune to this trend. The outbreak primarily affects urban areas such as Calgary and Edmonton, which have seen a rapid rise in reported cases, particularly among young adults and marginalized populations.

According to Alberta Health Services (AHS), Alberta declared a syphilis outbreak in 2019 with 2,265 cases of syphilis reported that year. In 2021, another 3,200 new infections were reported.

“We are seeing a continuing increase in syphilis in the past several years that is deeply concerning. The rate of syphilis has increased by more than 17 times since 2014, when only 160 cases were reported,” AHS reported. “Syphilis rates are increasing across Canada and internationally. Alberta has not seen such high levels of syphilis since the 1940’s.”

What’s more, the number of babies born with syphilis has reached alarming levels, CBC News reported in early July. The rate has jumped dramatically from 30.8 per 100,000 in 2018 to 169.1 last year. “Fifty babies — nearly one-fifth of cases — were stillborn during 2018 and 2022,” according to the report.

Factors Contributing to the Outbreak

Several factors have contributed to the syphilis outbreak in Alberta:

1. Inadequate Sexual Health Education: Insufficient sexual health education and lack of awareness about STIs, including syphilis, contribute to the spread of the disease. Effective prevention strategies and comprehensive education programs are essential in empowering individuals to make informed decisions and practice safe sexual behaviors.

2. High-Risk Sexual Behaviors: Engaging in high-risk sexual behaviors, such as unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and drug use, increases the likelihood of syphilis transmission. These behaviors are more prevalent among certain populations, including men who have sex with men, individuals involved in sex work, and substance users.

3. Stigma and Discrimination: Stigma surrounding STIs can discourage individuals from seeking testing, treatment, and support. Fear of judgment or discrimination may lead to delays in diagnosis and contribute to the ongoing spread of syphilis within communities.

4. Limited Access to Healthcare: Limited access to healthcare services, including sexual health clinics, testing facilities, and affordable or free STI screenings, can impede early detection and timely treatment. Addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring accessible and affordable care are crucial steps in combating the outbreak.

Combating the Outbreak: Prevention and Early Detection

To address the syphilis outbreak in Alberta, a multi-faceted approach is needed:

1. Comprehensive Sexual Health Education: Implementing comprehensive sexual health education programs in schools and communities can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions regarding sexual behaviour, protection, and STI prevention.

2. Increased Testing and Screening: Regular and routine STI testing is vital to detect infections early, especially among high-risk populations. Expanding testing services and reducing barriers to access can facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. This is where Scrubs can play an important role. The mobile lab service in Calgary offers confidential in-home testing, so individuals can book the service and have a technician come to them. Scrubs also allows individuals to order a mobile STI test without seeing their doctor. By avoiding uncomfortable visits to public labs and doctors, it is hoped that more people will get checked.

3. Safe Sex Practices: Promoting the use of barrier methods, such as condoms, and advocating for regular STI testing among sexually active individuals are crucial preventive measures. Encouraging open conversations about sexual health, consent, and respectful relationships can foster a culture of informed decision-making.

4. Targeted Interventions: Tailored interventions that focus on high-risk populations, including outreach programs, community engagement, and support services, are essential to address the specific needs and challenges faced by these groups.

5. Collaboration and Support: Collaboration between health care providers, community organizations, policymakers, and affected individuals is vital in addressing the syphilis outbreak effectively. This collaboration can facilitate the development and implementation of comprehensive strategies, including public awareness campaigns, training for healthcare professionals, and the allocation of resources to support prevention, testing, and treatment initiatives.

6. Routine Screening for Pregnant Individuals: Routine screening for syphilis during pregnancy is crucial to prevent mother-to-child transmission. Early detection and timely treatment can significantly reduce the risk of adverse outcomes for both the pregnant individual and the baby.

7. De-stigmatizing Syphilis: Efforts should be made to reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with syphilis and other STIs. Creating supportive environments that encourage open dialogue, understanding, and compassion can help individuals feel more comfortable seeking testing, treatment, and support.

Conclusion

The syphilis surge in Alberta highlights the urgent need for increased awareness, prevention, and early detection of this infectious disease. Addressing the factors contributing to the outbreak, such as inadequate sexual health education, high-risk behaviours, stigma, and limited access to healthcare, requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach.

By promoting comprehensive sexual health education, increasing testing and screening services, advocating for safe sexual practices, and targeting interventions to high-risk populations, we can work towards curbing the spread of syphilis.

Through collective efforts, we can create a safer and healthier future, raising awareness, promoting prevention, and ensuring early detection and treatment of syphilis and other STIs. Remember, knowledge, prevention, and timely action are key to protecting ourselves and our communities from the impact of syphilis.