Seroprevalence of Syphilis among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Yaqshiid District, Mogadishu, Somalia

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of syphilis among pregnant women in Somalia has been poorly studied, despite its significant impact on maternal and fetal health. In Somalia, the last syphilis study was conducted approximately 30 years ago, leaving a critical knowledge gap regarding the current epidemic of syphilis among pregnant women.

Materials and methods: From January 2023 to April 2023, a hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on maternal and child health. A total of 300 pregnant women were included in the study, and the seroprevalence of syphilis was determined using the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory. This one-step quick diagnostic test cassette was used as the preliminary screening tool, and Positive results were confirmed using the full chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) analyzer MAGLUMI. A structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic characteristics and knowledge regarding syphilis transmission and mother-to-child transmission. SPSS Version 27.0 was used to analyze the gathered data. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results:  Overall, 5.3% (16/300) of pregnant women had syphilis seroprevalence. Seroprevalence rates were higher in women aged 24-34 (50.0%). There were significant relationships between syphilis infection and education (p < 0.000), occupation (p < 0.000), and residence (p = 0.002). Furthermore, a significant majority of pregnant women (78%) were unaware of syphilis transmission routes and its correlation to HIV risk (81.7%). Stillbirths constituted 23.3% of pregnancy-related problems, whereas 17% of pregnant women had a prior record of blood transfusions.

Conclusions: The study found an alarming syphilis seroprevalence in pregnant women, especially in certain demographic groups. The lack of knowledge of syphilis transmission and its effects highlights the necessity for targeted education. Improved prenatal care, health awareness, and effective prevention should lessen the effects of syphilis on mother and newborn health.