Jan 02, Kathmandu - Research on syphilis has been initiated at Bheri Hospital, Nepalgunj. A one-year scientific study has been started to study the economic and social impact of syphilis among adolescents and young women due to risky sexual relations, informed Dr. Badri Chapagai, Chief Consultant, Dermatologist and Venereologist at Bheri Hospital.

Stressing that people should not be stopped from going abroad just because of the disease, he said that a Venus Corner has been established at Bheri Hospital for treatment, testing and consultation of the disease. Expert Dr. Chapagai said, “As the risk of this is increasing, we have made such an effort to provide easy access to the hospital for patients.”

Dr. Chapagai, the hospital's chief consultant dermatologist and venereologist who led the study, expressed the view that syphilis should not be limited to just a personal health problem. Stating that syphilis is a complex public health problem linked to social behavior, foreign employment, uncontrolled use of drugs and policy weaknesses, he said that the study was also initiated to present the reality seen in daily medical practice based on scientific evidence.

According to expert Dr. Chapagai, many people who have completed treatment are currently being disqualified for foreign employment based on a single blood test result of 'TPH A' being positive. He stated that it is having a serious impact on employment, family life and mental health and clarified that it is necessary to establish with evidence that being positive is not an indicator of transmission of the infection.

It is hoped that the study will provide factual information about the real situation of syphilis, practical challenges seen in the treatment process, existing misconceptions among health workers, and social stigma faced by patients. The findings from the study are also expected to pave the way for future improvements in national STI guidelines and health policies related to foreign employment.

Dr. Chapagai has urged the general public to pay attention to timely testing and treatment, stating that syphilis is a treatable disease. The research will be conducted from January 1 to December 31, 2026.