To tackle the sharp rise in syphilis rates, the city of Detroit is offering free health screenings during Public Health Week. The Detroit Health Department has arranged for a series of checkups that include tests for HIV, syphilis, and various wellness measures like blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, and kidney function at multiple centers throughout the city. As reported by The Detroit News, no appointment or ID is required to partake in the screenings.

According to Denise Fair Razo, the Chief Public Health Officer for Detroit, "Syphilis is really high in our community — in fact, in the last I believe 90 days, we have seen an uptick in syphilis cases," she said. Michigan has seen a doubling of syphilis cases from 2017 to 2022. In response, the city is not only offering in-person screenings but also home testing kits for HIV to address the stigma associated with testing.

The services extend beyond just screenings. As FOX 2 Detroit indicates, the health department is taking its mission out into the community, with further initiatives like vision and hearing checks, free Narcan test kits, along with fire safety presentations, and hands-only CPR training. The comprehensive care and varied locations aim to cover a spectrum of health concerns and educate on prevention.

Under the theme "Centering and Celebrating Culture in Health", activities also include fitness sessions, CPR and Narcan training, and a men's panel discussion known as 'Cuts and Conversations', designed to engage and address mental health and toxic masculinity, particularly in the African American community. The range of activities is detailed on the city's official health department webpage, brought to attention by ClickOnDetroit, and also highlights important services like Lead screenings. The health week began on April 1st and continues through April 6th, aiming to reach a broad swathe of the city’s populace.

This initiative is a critical step for Detroiters, whose health needs have escalated in certain areas. As the rates of syphilis and other health issues rise, the Detroit Health Department is pulling all stops to ensure free and easy access to essential health care, hoping to turn the tide on a concerning public health trend.