Turning the tide: SOPH leads statewide effort to combat syphilis epidemic
In response to a dramatic 1,200% increase in congenital syphilis cases across Mississippi over the past decade, the John D. Bower School of Population Health has launched a major initiative to confront this growing public health crisis.
Funded by a $1 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the "We Need to Talk" campaign is a comprehensive, statewide response led by the Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute for the Elimination of Health Disparities. This interdisciplinary effort engages partners from across the University of Mississippi Medical Center and beyond to address the epidemic through awareness, clinical outreach, testing, and support services.
“Syphilis is highly treatable, yet when left unaddressed, it can cause devastating outcomes—especially for mothers and newborns,” said Dr. Thomas Dobbs, Dean of the Bower School of Population Health and principal investigator of the project. “That’s why early detection and access to prenatal care are essential.”
The campaign includes a robust public messaging strategy led by Patrick Taylor, focusing on increasing public awareness through social media, traditional media, and a dedicated care navigation hotline and resource website. Clinically, Dr. Paul Byers and Dr. Caroline Weinberg are working with OBGYN and prenatal providers across the state to strengthen testing and treatment capacity.
In an innovative move to expand screening access, Dr. Utsav Nandi is leading efforts to integrate universal syphilis and HIV testing into emergency room encounters—an often-overlooked access point for pregnant patients with limited prenatal care.
To support patients beyond the clinic, Victoria Gholar and the Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute case management team are providing wraparound services, including insurance assistance, and referrals for follow-up care. Simultaneously, MEWI is collaborating with the Mississippi State Department of Health and local organizations to extend testing and education into community settings.
“This is a truly comprehensive, systems-based approach,” said Dr. Dobbs. “By addressing barriers to care and equipping both providers and patients with the tools they need, we are taking meaningful steps toward reversing this trend and protecting maternal and child health across Mississippi.”
To learn more about the "We Need to Talk" campaign or access SOPH’s prenatal care resources, visit umc.com/weneedtotalk or call (601) 815-6394.