Chagas disease : the silent killer; more awareness is needed to combat this neglected tropical disease, including in North America
Date
2011
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Science, Health and Environmental Reporting Program (SHERP), New York University
Abstract
Chagas disease is referred to as a “silent killer” in Central and South America because it can lie dormant for as long as thirty years. Those most at risk for Chagas disease tend to live in rural communities and also suffer from poverty-related conditions. However, simple adjustments can eradicate these and other disease-causing parasites: patching up cracks in walls, replacing earth floors with concrete, and moving animals like chickens from inside the house to outside. Chagas disease continues to infect large numbers of predominantly poor people in Latin America but is becoming an increasing presence in North America.
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Keywords
HEALTH, LATIN AMERICA, CHAGAS DISEASE, ECOHEALTH, ECOSYSTEMS, TRYPANOSOMA CRUZI, POVERTY, HOUSEHOLD IMPROVEMENTS, TRIATOMA