By Kate Lally
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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed a rise in cases of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can lead to dementia if not treated. As per the latest figures, there were 9,535 diagnoses of early-stage syphilis across England in 2024. This is a 2% increase from the 9,375 diagnoses in 2023. Part of an alert issued earlier this year reads: “Worryingly, the overall figure for syphilis, including late-stage syphilis or complications from the infection, increased 5% from 12,456 in 2023 to 13,030 in 2024.” According to NHS guidance, untreated syphilis can result in “potentially life-threatening complications”. These include heart issues, such as heart failure, organ problems, as well as dementia and other brain-related issues. Symptoms of syphilis are “often mild and hard to notice” and can “change over time and may come and go”. Warning signs include painless sores or ulcers on the genitals, mouth, or hands, along with white or grey warty growths and rashes on the palms or soles. Some people may also experience flu-like symptoms, patchy hair loss, and swollen glands. It can take three weeks or more for symptoms to appear after infection. NHS guidance warns that while a person’s symptoms may dramatically improve or completely disappear in certain instances, “if you have not been treated the infection is still in your body”. Should someone remain infected, they risk transmitting it to others while also facing potential serious health complications later on. Anyone who displays syphilis symptoms, or whose sexual partner does, is advised to consult a GP or attend a sexual health clinic. This is also the case if a sexual partner has informed them they have syphilis or any other STI, or if they’ve recently engaged in unprotected sex with a new partner. This guidance also applies if you’ve injected drugs using a needle previously used by someone who may have syphilis, or if you’re expecting or planning to conceive and suspect you may have contracted syphilis. Syphilis is managed with antibiotics. If you’re diagnosed with syphilis, your current and any recent sexual partners will also require testing and treatment.
