NOTIFICATIONS OF SYPHILIS CASES AND THEIR IMPACTS ON EPIDEMIOLOGICAL SURVEILLANCE AND DISEASE CONTROL SYSTEMS IN BRAZIL: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which represents a significant public health problem at a global level. Failure to detect syphilis early and properly treat it can lead to serious complications, including stillbirth and neonatal death, as well as the continued spread of infection in the general population. Objective: To investigate the fundamentals of the inaccuracy of syphilis case notifications in epidemiological surveillance systems and its consequences for the control and prevention of the disease in Brazil. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review on possible gaps in syphilis case notifications and their impacts on epidemiological surveillance and disease control systems in Brazil. Results and Discussion: From the descriptors selected for the development of the present research, there were 26 selected articles, of which 16 were included in the research. Compulsory notification of syphilis in Brazil is a mandatory process, established by the Ministry of Health, with the objective of tracking and controlling the infection. The notification of syphilis cases in Brazil is carried out through the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), and is crucial for the control of syphilis. The increasing complexity in filling out notification forms and the difficulty in accessing essential information contribute to incomplete records, increasing the underreporting of cases of congenital syphilis. This aggravates the situation, since accurate data is essential for the formulation of efficient health policies. The low training of the professionals responsible for notifications is a crucial point, as it negatively affects the scenario of the disease. Final considerations: This study highlights the need to improve the notification and treatment of syphilis in Brazil, especially to prevent congenital syphilis. Despite the advances, gaps in training and records compromise epidemiological surveillance. Investments in training and rapid testing, along with awareness campaigns, are essential to improve the response and reduce complications.