In some regions of Russia, there is an increase in the incidence of syphilis, which may be associated with stress, as well as an increase in the number of people who do not use barrier contraceptives. D., a dermatovenereologist at the H-Clinic University Clinic. Told to socialbites.ca by Anna Sharopina.
According to Rosstat, a significant case of syphilis was recorded in various regions of the country, in Moscow, Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Republic of Tyva, Kaluga, Tver and Tomsk regions, in January-September 2022, as Sharopina explained.
At the same time, there is no talk of an epidemic yet.
“An epidemic is declared or not declared by higher authorities who evaluate the situation as a whole and have access to statistics. But the fact that we have an increase in incidence – yes, that’s for sure, ”confirmed the dermatovenerologist.
The doctor suggested that the increase in the number of cases could be due to several factors, including psychological stress, condom rejection, and increased awareness among HIV carriers.
“I would pick a few factors. For example, psychological stress, which can lead to loss of self-control. Or, oddly enough, more awareness: if, according to the results of tests, HIV-infected patients get a viral load of 0, that is, they cease to be dangerous to others, then for some reason they forget about other diseases and decide. not to protect themselves. The number of communities where it is not customary to use barrier methods of contraception in their culture is also actively increasing,” said Anna Sharopina.
The dermatovenereologist added that in her practice, more and more patients are beginning to appear with secondary syphilis, in which the skin and mucous membranes are affected, not the genitals.
Previously reportedthat scientists have recreated the appearance of a 16th-century Icelandic woman who had ulcers on her face due to syphilis.