The Importance of Screening for Chagas Disease Against the Backdrop of Changing Epidemiology in the USA

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review seeks to identify factors contributing to the changing epidemiology of Chagas disease in the United States of America (US). By showcasing screening programs for Chagas disease that currently exist in endemic and non-endemic settings, we make recommendations for expanding access to Chagas disease diagnosis and care in the US.

Recent findings: Several factors including but not limited to increasing migration, climate change, rapid population growth, growing urbanization, changing transportation patterns, and rising poverty are thought to contribute to changes in the epidemiology of Chagas disease in the US. Outlined are some examples of successful screening programs for Chagas disease in other countries as well as in some areas of the US, notably those which focus on screening high-risk populations and are linked to affordable and effective treatment options.

Summary: Given concerns that Chagas disease prevalence and even risk of transmission may be increasing in the US, there is a need for improving detection and treatment of the disease. There are many successful screening programs in place that can be replicated and/or expanded upon in the US. Specifically, we propose integrating Chagas disease into relevant clinical guidelines, particularly in cardiology and obstetrics/gynecology, and using advocacy as a tool to raise awareness of Chagas disease.

Keywords: Chagas disease; Infectious disease screening and detection; Neglected tropical diseases; Trypanosoma cruzi; United States of America; Zoonotic diseases.