CPH faculty awarded NIH grant to combat congenital syphilis in Texas

[Link]Congenital syphilis, a devastating yet preventable condition, is on the rise in Texas, prompting urgent action from researchers and public health leaders. Dr. Stacey Griner, a leading researcher in sexually transmitted infections and implementation science, has been awarded a two-year NIH-funded research grant to address this growing crisis. Griner serves as assistant professor of population and community health at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth College of Public Health.

Alarmingly, congenital syphilis rates have surged across the U.S., with Texas experiencing an increase of 148% between 2018 and 2022. These rates highlight gaps in prenatal care, such as missed screenings or inadequate treatment, despite the availability of effective interventions.

This research project will focus on implementing and improving the state's syphilis screening policies during pregnancy. The study will examine the barriers and facilitators to implementation of these screening policies by prenatal care providers. By identifying the challenges providers face, such as lack of awareness or structural limitations, Griner's team aims to develop strategies to integrate screening policies effectively into clinical practice.

"We have a very strong, interdisciplinary research team on this project, including clinicians, which will enable us to focus on the practical application of the strategies we create," Griner said.

Co-investigators on this project include Dr. Malinee Neelamegam from the College of Public Health, PA Amanda Brosnan from the HSC College of Health Professions, and Dr. Meagan Nelsen in HSC's Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Sophia Garza, a first-year UNTHSC PhD student, is collaborating with Griner in the development and implementation of this project. Her role includes developing materials, facilitating data collection and conducting interviews. Garza chose HSC for its strong emphasis on public health research and its commitment to fostering innovative approaches to addressing health disparities. With research interests in sexual and reproductive health and intimate partner violence prevention, she is particularly drawn to how this project addresses maternal and infant health outcomes.

"This research is a natural fit for my interests, and I'm excited to contribute to work that has the potential to make such a significant public health impact," Garza said.

This research aligns with the College of Public Health's strategic plan - IMPACT 2030: Commitment to Community and national goals including Healthy People 2030, which emphasizes reducing syphilis rates in women and congenital syphilis cases.

The outcomes of this research could set a precedent for other states and contribute to significant public health improvements by enhancing prenatal care and protecting maternal and infant health.

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