About the Guest:

Dr. Cynthia Thomas is a primary care physician and assistant health officer at the Tennessee Department of Health's Northeast Regional Health Office. With 13 years of service at the Department of Health, Dr. Thomas provides primary care services to uninsured patients and oversees clinical STI and family planning services. She also supervises nurse practitioners and engages in the development and implementation of prevention initiatives, specifically focusing on maternal and child health and the prevention of congenital syphilis. Her extensive experience and leadership make her a key figure in addressing public health concerns in the region.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of "Growing Stronger Together," host Dr. Karen Schetzina engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Cynthia Thomas about a pressing public health issue—syphilis, particularly its impact during pregnancy and on newborns, termed congenital syphilis. Dr. Thomas shares her extensive experience from the Tennessee Department of Health, emphasizing the alarming increase in syphilis cases and its profound implications. With over a decade of experience in public health, Dr. Thomas provides a detailed narrative on the historical context, symptoms, complications, and prevention strategies for syphilis.

The conversation delves deep into the multiple stages of syphilis infection, elucidating why it's known as the "great imitator" due to its varied symptoms. Dr. Thomas explains that syphilis remains a significant concern today, underscored by the startling rise in congenital syphilis cases. She highlights the importance of early screening and treatment, particularly for pregnant women, to prevent congenital infection in newborns. The episode also addresses the crucial role of healthcare providers and families in curbing the spread of syphilis through awareness, testing, and appropriate medical interventions.

Key Takeaways:

• The rate of syphilis infections has alarmingly increased over the past decade, notably affecting pregnant women and newborns.
• Syphilis is known as the "great imitator" due to its ability to present symptoms similar to a variety of other diseases.
• Primary penicillin treatment remains effective for curing syphilis, yet individuals can be reinfected without preventive measures.
• Prenatal care and screening for syphilis are crucial in preventing congenital syphilis and its severe health impacts on newborns.
• Healthcare professionals are encouraged to consider syphilis testing at diverse healthcare encounters, especially for individuals capable of becoming pregnant.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Syphilis is not an infection that's probably been on everyone's radar in recent years, but because of increasing case rates and prevalence in our region, I would just want families to understand what the infection is and how to prevent it."
2. "The alarming increase in syphilis cases in the general population, particularly among women, is a growing concern, leading to more cases during pregnancy and congenital syphilis in newborns."
3. "We are here to support healthcare providers with resources, reporting, and partner treatment to effectively tackle the rise in syphilis cases."
4. "Early screening and treatment with penicillin can prevent the transmission of syphilis and its severe health consequences, especially in unborn children."
5. "Regardless of your insurance status or ability to pay, testing and treatment for syphilis are readily available at local health departments."

Resources:

• Tennessee Department of Health
• Local health department resources for STI testing and counseling
• From the Tennessee Department of Health: Syphilis
  
  From CDC:
  About Syphilis | Syphilis | CDC
  About Congenital Syphilis | Syphilis | CDC
  
  From End the Syndemic Tennessee:
  STIs – End The Syndemic

Don't miss this enlightening episode on the "Growing Stronger Together" podcast for a deeper understanding of the public health challenges surrounding syphilis. Stay tuned for more episodes focused on the health and wellbeing of mothers, children, and families.