# data[].attributes.body
STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) are infections spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. They’re caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can affect anyone who is sexually active. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HIV, and trichomoniasis.

Today’s focus: Syphilis.

# data[].attributes.body
The spiral-shaped Treponema pallidum is the bacterium that causes syphilis. It is highly motile and cannot be cultured in a lab using standard methods, which makes it tricky to study. About 50,000 people are infected each year in the U.S.

# data[].attributes.body
Some STIs may cause noticeable symptoms like genital sores, discharge, or itching, while others may be silent and go unnoticed without testing. If left untreated, STIs can lead to serious health complications such as infertility, chronic pain, increased risk of HIV, and complications during pregnancy.

# data[].attributes.body
Infected newborns can have many health problems, including impaired vision and hearing, if not treated.

# data[].attributes.body
If left untreated, syphilis progresses through four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary, with each stage becoming more serious. Tertiary syphilis can lead to neurosyphilis, causing brain lesions, memory loss, and coordination issues. It may also damage the heart, blood vessels, bones, and joints, resulting in aneurysms, gummas, and chronic pain.

# data[].attributes.body
Antibiotics can treat the infection, but not repair damage. Prevention methods include practicing abstinence, using condoms, limiting sexual partners, and getting regularly tested, especially if sexually active with new or multiple partners.