Syphilis Infections in Tokyo Reach Record High: What You Need to Know

According to the latest statistics from the Tokyo Metropolitan Infectious Disease Information Center, the number of syphilis infections in Tokyo has reached a record high of 2,460 confirmed cases in 2024. This has raised concerns among experts that the spread of syphilis may continue to increase.

Demographics of Infected Individuals

The infected individuals are predominantly male, with a male to female ratio of 7 to 3. The age range of infected males is between 20 to 50 years old, while infected females are mostly between 20 to 30 years old.

Expert Insights

Toru Nishizuka, Director of Infectious Disease Countermeasures and Adjustments, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bureau of Health and Medical Care, stated, “In the past three years, the number of syphilis infections in Tokyo has continued to reach record highs, and there are signs of continued increase. Some infected people have less obvious symptoms after being infected with syphilis, and some people even have no symptoms at all.”

Asymptomatic Infections

The center pointed out that some infected individuals are unaware that they have engaged in “risky sexual behavior” and are susceptible to infection. Additionally, some patients have been infected for many years and were not diagnosed until testing this year. Asymptomatic syphilis infections are also contagious to a certain extent, which can lead to unknowingly transmitting the disease to sexual partners.

Getting Tested

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government reminds citizens that syphilis testing is available at public health centers across the country. Examination and consultation rooms have been set up in the Shinjuku and Tama areas, where citizens can receive syphilis testing anonymously and for free. The public is urged to get tested.

Understanding Syphilis

Syphilis is an infectious disease caused by Treponema pallidum. The incubation period ranges from nine to ninety days. It is mainly transmitted through three routes: sexual contact, mother-to-fetal transmission, and other non-sexual contact routes, such as sharing syringes. Currently, most patients with syphilis are infected through sexual contact.

Prevention and Treatment

To reduce the risk of contracting syphilis, practicing safe sex is the best way:

• Have an exclusive sexual relationship with an uninfected partner
• Use condoms correctly; however, condoms do not provide absolute protection if syphilis lesions appear on other parts of the body

If you suspect you have syphilis, seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can prevent the transmission of syphilis to others.