ADHERENCE TO THE PREVENTION OF CONGENITAL SYPHILIS THROUGH APPROPRIATE TREATMENT IN BRAZILIAN TERRITORY: A NEW VIEW ON INTERVENTIONS THROUGH ECOLOGICAL STUDY (Atena Editora)

Abstract

Congenital syphilis, caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, is a serious public health problem. Transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy, it can cause serious damage if there is no appropriate treatment. Although preventable and treatable, treatment is often not followed as recommended. Between 2017 and 2022, Brazil recorded more than 400,000 cases of gestational syphilis, resulting in more than 150,000 cases of congenital syphilis. Therefore, it is necessary to improve adherence to treatment to prevent vertical transmission. OBJECTIVE: To analyze adherence to the treatment of gestational syphilis as a way to prevent congenital syphilis. METHOD, adequate prenatal care, period of maternal syphilis diagnosis, treatment schedule and covered all regions and federative units of Brazil. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: In the period analyzed, Brazil recorded 154,573 cases of congenital syphilis and 402,292 cases of gestational syphilis. In 2022, 26,468 cases were reported, mainly in the Southeast and Northeast. Intervention by health services is crucial to prevent complications and reduce vertical transmission. Prenatal care plays a fundamental role in early diagnosis and treatment with penicillin, the only safe medicine for pregnant women, as the use of other antibiotics is contraindicated, posing risks to maternal and fetal health. CONCLUSION: The association between low education, inadequate maternal treatment, delay in antibiotic therapy, temporary lack of penicillin and lack of prenatal care aggravate this scenario. Intervention by health services is essential to prevent congenital syphilis and reduce vertical transmission. Furthermore, the appropriate choice of medication for pregnant women is essential for effective and safe treatment.