Lake County, IN – Indiana’s syphilis cases jumped significantly in 2021, following a nationwide trend in rising STD rates. Syphilis cases in Indiana climbed 38% from 2020 to 2021, with notable increases among women of childbearing age, men who have sex with men, and people with recent incarceration. Gonorrhea cases also rose by 22% over five years, disproportionately affecting African-American communities, according to Lake County health officials.
Indiana reported 38 cases of congenital syphilis in 2022, the highest recorded. Factors linked to the spike include methamphetamine use, homelessness, and limited access to prenatal care. Incarceration and injection drug use remain primary risk factors.
The Lake County report highlights that syphilis rates among heterosexual men grew 230% in five years. Health officials warn that the social factors driving these increases require urgent intervention to prevent further spread.
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