P1-S2.40 HIV and syphilis coinfection among men who have sex with men, 34 states, USA―2009

Background During the early 2000s, reports of the re-emergence of syphilis among men who have with men (MSM) in the USA described a high prevalence of HIV coinfection in different localities, often among middle-aged men. Since 2001, syphilis has increased among men in younger age groups. Here, we present a description of HIV coinfection among MSM of different races and ethnicities with primary and secondary syphilis across multiple states during 2009. Methods We reviewed data reported to CDC from states in the USA that reported HIV coinfection status for at least 70% of cases of primary and secondary (P&S) syphilis during 2009. These data originated from P&S syphilis patient interviews and included census region, sex, sex of sex partner, race, ethnicity, and HIV infection status. Prevalence of coinfection was calculated using coinfected patients as the numerator, and all P&S syphilis patients who were asked about their HIV status as the denominator. Results 34 states and Washington, DC from all regions of the USA met inclusion criteria, accounting for 82% of all PS RR 20−24-year old =1.8, p Conclusion Regardless of race, ethnicity or region, MSM with P&S syphilis had high rates of HIV coinfection. Interventions at young ages are urgently needed to prevent HIV and P&S syphilis among MSM.