SEXUAL EDUCATION AND SYPHILIS CONTROL IN ADOLESCENCE

Abstract

This chapter analyzes syphilis in adolescence through a critical approach focused on youth vulnerabilities, health education, and the organization of care within the Brazilian Unified Health System. It aims to discuss how educational strategies, especially comprehensive sexuality education, can contribute to prevention, timely diagnosis, and syphilis control among adolescents. This is a theoretical-reflective study, organized as a book chapter based on an original rewriting of a narrative review, combining recent scientific literature with national and international technical and normative documents. The analysis shows that the persistence of syphilis among adolescents cannot be explained solely by individual behavior, but results from the interaction of social inequalities, barriers to reliable information, stigma, weaknesses in testing, and limitations in the integration of surveillance, care, and education. It is evident that scientifically grounded, culturally sensitive educational interventions linked to adolescent-friendly services improve knowledge, encourage protective practices, strengthen the search for care, and expand autonomy in sexual health. It is concluded that confronting syphilis in adolescence requires a sustained intersectoral response, with a central role for primary health care, schools, nursing, and public policies committed to comprehensiveness, equity, and sexual and reproductive rights.