Análise espaço-temporal da sífilis congênita no Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil, de 2008 a 2022

Background and Objectives: Rio Grande do Norte state is experiencing an epidemic of congenital syphilis cases, with an average incidence above the national rate. In this context, this study aims to identify the Health Regions of Rio Grande do Norte most affected by congenital syphilis through spatial analysis and, from there, define the temporal trend of infection in these areas. Methods: This is an ecological study using secondary data, using spatial analysis techniques, and temporal trends of congenital syphilis in Rio Grande do Norte from 2008 to 2022. Results: The incidence of congenital syphilis in 2022 reached 525 new cases in the state, approximately 100 fewer cases compared to 2021. Of these, the 7thhealth region had a substantially higher average than the other regions. The 3rd health region has the highest average number of congenital syphilis cases per 1,000 live births in the territory, with 25.51 cases. Regarding the temporal trend, the most significant increase is expected in the 8th, 3rd, and 7th health regions, respectively. Conclusion: A greater incidence of congenital syphilis exposure was found in the 1st, 3rd, 7th, and 8th health regions. Given the data studied, an increase in these health regions is expected, which may result in service overload. Therefore, appropriate management of infected pregnant women should be reinforced in Primary Care, as well as investment in prevention and health education actions.