With syphilis cases in U.S. newborns skyrocketing, a doctors group now recommends that all pregnant patients be screened three times for the sexually transmitted infection.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists issued new guidance on Thursday saying the screening should be done at the first prenatal visit, during the third trimester and at birth. Though the screening isn’t required, health professionals generally follow the group’s recommendations.
“The cases of congenital syphilis are definitely climbing, and they’ve been climbing over the last 10 years. And it’s completely preventable ... It’s unacceptable,” said Dr. Laura Riley, who chairs the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Weill Cornell Medicine and helped with the guidance. “We need to be able to do better diagnostics and treatment.”
Previously, the group recommended one test in the third trimester — but only for women considered at risk of getting syphilis during pregnancy or those living in communities with high rates of the disease. But this risk-based approach is “how we get into trouble because we’re missing cases,” Riley said.
Electrician, 55, filmed racially abusing Muslim women as they returned from a pro
Dodgers prospect Andy Pages slated for major league debut against Nationals
The Dallas Stars can still score. They are now deeper and more balanced going into the NHL playoffs
Kourtney Kardashian breaks silence on her 'Auntie Karen' Houghton nearly a month after her death
Olympic gold medalist Allisha Gray hopes to be part of US 3x3 team in Paris Games
Barbra Banda joins her Orlando Pride teammates for her first practice with the team
China joins int'l IP cooperation initiative to enhance patent prosecution processes
Governor's pandemic rules for bars violated North Carolina Constitution, appeals court says
Zendaya, Josh O'Connor and Mike Faist on the steamy love triangle of 'Challengers'
Kiefer Sutherland reunites with Stand By Me co
Crew members injured in crash on set of Eddie Murphy movie 'The Pickup'
Pulisic and McKennie face each other as rivals in Italy before joining forces again for US