Cuba is facing a “silent epidemic” of syphilis, especially among adolescents, pregnant women, and newborns, despite having been recognized for eliminating mother-to-child transmission.
In 2023, 8,298 cases were registered, the highest figure since 1997, with two deaths.
In 2024, there were 7,740 infections, with one death.
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has allocated more than US$30.7 million to contain the spread, focusing on 11 municipalities in five provinces. The shortage of condoms and the loss of healthcare personnel exacerbate the situation. A significant increase in cases among women has been reported, with the rate tripling between 2010 and 2024. Cases have been documented of Cuban women infected before leaving the island and without access to treatment.
The prevalence of syphilis is high in vulnerable groups such as transgender women (20.4%) and men who have sex with men (2-3.4%).
