What is the trend in STI rates in the United States?

According to the 2024 CDC report, the total number of reported STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, declined by 9% in 2024 compared to the previous year.

Why is the rise in congenital syphilis cases concerning?

The data shows that while overall syphilis cases declined, congenital syphilis cases increased for the 12th consecutive year, reaching nearly 4,000 cases in 2024. This indicates ongoing gaps in screening and treatment for pregnant women, which can lead to serious health consequences for infants.

How do the syphilis trends differ between men and women?

The data reveals that the decline in syphilis was much more pronounced among men, with a 24% drop in primary and secondary cases. In contrast, the decrease among women was only 14%, suggesting that heterosexual transmission remains a significant challenge.

Home / Health / Syphilis Surges as Other STIs Decline, Exposing Gaps in US Healthcare

Syphilis Surges as Other STIs Decline, Exposing Gaps in US Healthcare

10 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis declined in 2024
Congenital syphilis cases rose 12th year in a row, reaching nearly 4,000 cases
Syphilis decline concentrated among men, while cases in women increased

Syphilis Surges as Other STIs Decline, Exposing Gaps in US Healthcare

According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the total number of reported sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States declined by 9% in 2024 compared to the previous year. This marks the third consecutive annual decrease and the first sustained multi-year decline in over a decade.

However, a closer look at the data reveals concerning trends. While reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and early-stage syphilis have decreased, the number of congenital syphilis cases—infections passed from mother to child during pregnancy—rose by 1.6% in 2024, reaching nearly 4,000 cases. This marks the 12th consecutive year of increases in congenital syphilis, a sign that screening and treatment gaps persist, especially for vulnerable populations.