Study: Internet
Fueling Rise of Syphilis Cases Among Gays

Experts believe Internet hookups are helping to fuel a syphilis epidemic among men who have sex with men. MSMs are more likely to turn to the Internet to find sex partners than meet them at bars or clubs, according to a new report by the Chicago Department of Public Health, reports the Chicago Tribune.

According to the health department survey, 34% of men diagnosed with syphilis last year at city health department STD clinics claim they met their sex partners on the Internet.

While rates among heterosexuals have dropped to a historic low, rates among men who have sex with men have risen in recent years.

Syphilis is easily treated with penicillin in its early stages. Untreated, it can damage internal organs, including the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, and joints.

The National Coalition of STD Directors published national guidelines on Internet-based interventions to help health departments use the Web in outreach and prevention programs. (The Advocate)