"How common is syphilis now?"
In the United States there were 6,993 cases reported in 1998 which is 2.6 per 100,000 people. In 2004 there was an increase in the number of cases reported in major cities all over the United States.

"How do doctors test for this?"
There is a blood test and patients are evaluated if there are physical symptoms such as genital lesions.

"If I have unprotected sex with someone, how soon until I know if I have been infected?"
The incubation period is 2-6 weeks but can be up to 3 months or more until you get symptoms.

"Is there a cure for syphilis?"
Yes, syphilis is curable. Typical antibiotics include; Bicillin 2.4million units IM, Doxycycline 100mg twice a day for 28 days or tetracycline 500mg four times a day for 28 days. There are documented cases of azithromycin (Zithromax) resistant syphilis.

"My last partner was very promiscuous, how can I tell if she has this?"
The incidence is somewhat low in the United States but certainly not zero. Like most STDs, unless the partner discloses this information you will not know. Visual inspection of your partners anatomy does not usually help.

"Is it true that you go blind from syphilis?"
This is one potential complication from latent (untreated) syphilis.