Tokyo — According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Infectious Disease Surveillance Center, the number of syphilis cases in Tokyo has surged rapidly, reaching approximately 2,460 cases this year. This pace may approach last year’s record high of 3,701 cases.

Men make up around 70% of all syphilis cases, while women account for 30%. The increase is particularly seen among men aged 20-59 and women aged 20-29. Many infected individuals mistakenly believe they are safe due to familiarity with their partners or lack of awareness of being infected for years, making syphilis an often-overlooked disease.

In response to the rapid rise in syphilis cases, Tokyo has set up free, anonymous testing and counseling centers in several locations, including Shinjuku and Tama. Public health centers also offer syphilis testing, and the Shinjuku center provides 24-hour online booking and weekend testing.

The Tokyo government is urging people to get tested immediately if concerned.

Congenital syphilis, which is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, can cause rashes and abnormalities in newborns. Infected children may develop conditions like eye inflammation and hearing loss in a few years, even if no symptoms appear at birth.

This disease can be cured if treated early but may lead to severe complications in the brain and heart if left untreated.

Sources:

• Xinhua Thai. "Syphilis Cases in Tokyo Rise at Record Pace." Retrieved from https://www.xinhuathai.com/inter/463819_20240911
• ArokaGO Health Library: Syphilis Symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.arokago.com/health-library/syphilis/symptoms