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What's driving an epidemic? The spread of syphilis along an Interstate Highway in rural North Carolina

Author

Listed:
  • Cook, R.L.
  • Royce, R.A.
  • Thomas, J.C.
  • Hanusa, B.H.

Abstract

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to determine whether county syphilis rates were increased along Interstate Highway 95 (I-95) in North Carolina during a recent epidemic. Methods. Ecological data on syphilis cases, demographic data, highway data, and drag activity data were used to conduct a cross-sectional and longitudinal study of North Carolina counties from 1985 to 1994. Crude and adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were determined by means of standard and longitudinal Poisson regression models adjusted for sociodemographic factors and drag use. Results. Ten-year syphilis rates in I-95 counties greatly exceeded rates in non-I-95 counties (38 vs 16 cases per 100 000 persons) and remained higher after adjustment for race, age, sex, poverty, large cities, and drug activity (adjusted IRR = 2.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.84, 2.28). Syphilis rates were stable until 1989, when rates increased sharply in I-95 counties but remained stable in non-I-95 counties. Increased drag activity in I-95 counties preceded the rise in syphilis cases. Conclusions. A better understanding of the relationship between highways and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases may guide future prevention interventions.

Suggested Citation

  • Cook, R.L. & Royce, R.A. & Thomas, J.C. & Hanusa, B.H., 1999. "What's driving an epidemic? The spread of syphilis along an Interstate Highway in rural North Carolina," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 89(3), pages 369-373.
    • Handle: RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:1999:89:3:369-373_2
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