April 14th is Chagas Disease
April 14th is Chagas Disease Day, with the aim of raising awareness about this neglected tropical disease, which affects millions of people, mainly in Latin American countries. The date was chosen to honor the birth of Carlos Chagas, a Brazilian physician who, in 1909, discovered the disease and its transmitter, the kissing bug.
Chagas disease is caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi and can be transmitted mainly by bites from the kissing bug, but also by blood transfusion, organ transplant or from mother to baby. If left untreated, it can develop into chronic forms, mainly affecting the heart and digestive system.
World Chagas Disease Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment. In various parts of the world, the date is marked by educational campaigns, lectures and public health actions aimed at preventing and controlling the disease.
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