Effects of prenatal screening strategies for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of syphilis during pregnancy

Syphilis infection during pregnancy continues to be a significant global public health concern, with congenital syphilis rates reaching their highest levels in over two decades. Screening during pregnancy is crucial because syphilis, caused by Treponema pallidum, can be transmitted vertically from mother to fetus at any stage of gestation and also during delivery. The objective of this evidence synthesis is to synthesize the available evidence on the effectiveness of different syphilis screening approaches during pregnancy. We aim to examine various prenatal screening strategies, including the timing, frequency, and methods of testing, to determine the most effective approach for preventing congenital syphilis and other adverse pregnancy outcomes. Our findings will inform the development of evidence-based screening recommendations by the National Advisory Committee on Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections and support the Public Health Agency of Canada in program activities related to prenatal syphilis screening.