Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Female sex workers (FSWs) are considered a bridge for transmission of pathogens from high-risk to general populations. We assessed the epidemiological status of syphilis in FSWs along the Pará highway system.
METHODS:
Two hundred and twenty-two FSWs were interviewed and samples were analyzed using rapid qualitative tests and real-time polymerase chain reaction.
RESULTS:
The prevalence of syphilis was high (36.94%). The high rate of prostitution, use of illicit drugs, and search for financial resources increased Treponema pallidum transmission through unprotected sex.
CONCLUSIONS:
Several characteristics of FSWs were identified, which reinforce the need for measures guaranteeing their health and protection.
Keywords:
Epidemiology; Syphilis; Female sex workers
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