Study on Syphilis Prevalence Among HIV-Positive Individuals in Panama Published

Dr. Casey Xavier Hall, Assistant Director of the Center of Population Sciences for Health Equity (CPSHE), Florida State University, has co-authored a significant study published in Therapeutic Advances in Infectious Disease. The research, titled "Prevalence of Syphilis Among People Living with HIV Who Attend a Large Urban Antiretroviral Therapy Clinic in Panama," reveals high rates of syphilis among HIV-positive individuals, particularly young males and those identifying as homosexual or bisexual. 

This cross-sectional study highlights the need for targeted interventions and frequent testing to mitigate the spread of syphilis in this vulnerable population. Despite increasing rates, data on syphilis prevalence among people living with HIV in Panama was previously unavailable. This study, involving 378 HIV-positive individuals at a treatment clinic in Panama City, aims to identify infection rates and the most affected demographics, setting a strong foundation for possible targeted interventions. 

Dr. Xavier Hall collaborated with Dr. Amanda Gabster, a researcher at the Gorgas Memorial Institute for Health Studies in Panama with whom CPSHE is strongly affiliated and collaborates with, along with a multitude of other expert researchers in this related field. His research with CPSHE focuses on community-based research addressing sexual, gender, and racial health disparities. Broadly speaking, his work addresses multilevel influences on sexual health, violence, and mental health.

For more information, visit PubMed.