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Primary and Secondary Syphilis in the Metropolitan Area of Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee: 1996 to 1998 Epidemic Described

Background: Metropolitan Nashville, Tennessee experienced a syphilis epidemic from 1996 to 1998. Goal: This study describes the syphilis epidemic during this period. Design: Descriptive analyses of syphilis surveillance data (1988‐1998) were performed, with emphasis on the current epidemic (1996‐1998), and were stratified by age, gender, race, and census tracts. Results: Five features were observed regarding the 1996 to 1998 syphilis epidemic: (1) males and females were almost equally affected, with a delay in diagnosis in female patients; (2) the 30‐39‐year age group was most affected; (3) the 15‐19‐year age group had the highest percentage increase in incidence; (4) African Americans were the most affected population subgroup; and (5) downtown Nashville and the surrounding areas were most affected. Conclusion: Although talk of eradicating syphilis has surfaced nationally, Nashville has continually faced syphilis as a public health problem. During each of the past 3 years (1996‐1998), the incidence of syphilis in this community has reached epidemic proportions.