Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease which is curable but can be serious if not treated.

In the United States, about 36,000 cases of syphilis are reported each year, and the actual number is presumed to be higher. About three-fifths of the reported cases occur in men.

Health care professionals suggest that safer sex practices such as the use of condoms should always be used in sexual activities, but they should by no means be considered an absolute safeguard. The best suggestion is to avoid sexual activities with anyone known to have a sexually transmissable disease, and indeed anyone whose disease-negative status you aren't certain of.

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External links:

"Syphilis fact sheet" from the Center for Disease Control

http://www.cdc.gov/nchstp/dstd/Fact_Sheets/Syphilis_Facts.htm