Argentina Grapples with Soaring Syphilis and STI Rates

Argentina is facing a significant resurgence of syphilis, with the nation reporting 46,799 cases in 2025. This figure represents a sustained increase over 15 years, accelerating since 2022, and has reached the highest historical record. The national rate now stands at 117.2 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, a concerning statistic that highlights a growing public health challenge.

The data reveals a particularly alarming trend among younger demographics. A staggering 76% of the reported cases in 2025 occurred in individuals between the ages of 15 and 39, with a notable peak in the 20 to 24 age group. Young women in this age bracket are disproportionately affected, outnumbering young men.

This rise in syphilis is mirrored by similar upward trends in other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhea and chlamydia. Furthermore, Argentina recorded 6,900 new HIV cases in the 2023-2024 period. An estimated 140,000 people are living with HIV in the country, with 17% unaware of their status. Crucially, 98% of HIV infections are attributed to unprotected sexual relations.

Experts attribute the surge in STIs, including HIV, primarily to a sharp decline in condom usage. A recent survey indicated that only 15% of individuals use condoms during sexual activity, a significant drop from 40% a decade ago when the Aids Healthcare Foundation began its testing programs in Argentina. Specialists suggest that a lack of awareness about STI transmission, particularly among adolescents and young adults who often prioritize pregnancy prevention, contributes to the problem. The perceived invincibility of youth and the rise of casual encounters facilitated by dating apps are also cited as contributing factors.