Elvira Rodríguez discovered she was a carrier of Chagas disease while pregnant with her first child. Fearing for her baby’s future, she received treatment to prevent transmission. Fortunately, her daughter tested negative after birth.
In Mexico, Elvira Idalia Hernández Cuevas learned about Chagas when her 18-year-old son was diagnosed with it after a blood donation. She had never heard of the disease and struggled to find proper care. Chagas, caused by parasitic kissing bugs, is common in Latin America but also present in parts of North America, Europe, and Australia. These bugs spread the disease through bites and feces, which can be accidentally ingested.
Chagas affects around 8 million people in Latin America and 6-7 million globally.
Left untreated, it can cause severe heart and gastrointestinal issues, leading to 12,000 deaths annually. Despite kissing bugs being present in the U.S., Chagas is not widespread there.
Hernández and her daughter faced challenges finding doctors familiar with Chagas, as many Mexican doctors downplay its prevalence. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers it a neglected tropical disease, which complicates treatment and prevention. The disease is becoming more widespread, transmitted through blood transfusions, organ transplants, and from mother to child.
Although Chagas can be treated with benznidazole and nifurtimox, these drugs are not highly effective in adults and can cause serious side effects. Rodríguez experienced severe reactions during treatment but continues annual check-ups.
Hernández, now president of FINDECHAGAS, is dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for better resources and support for Chagas sufferers.
Chagas disease, also known as the “silent killer,” often goes undetected until it has already caused serious damage. The stories of Elvira Rodríguez and Elvira Idalia Hernández Cuevas highlight the importance of raising awareness about this deadly disease.
If you notice the presence of kissing bugs in your home, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. These bugs may seem harmless, but they can transmit the parasite that causes Chagas disease through their bites and feces. The consequences of untreated Chagas can be devastating, leading to severe heart and gastrointestinal complications.
While Chagas is more common in Latin America, cases have been reported in other parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Australia. The lack of awareness about this disease among healthcare providers can make it difficult for patients to receive proper care. This is why advocacy organizations like FINDECHAGAS play a crucial role in raising awareness and providing support to those affected by Chagas.
Treatment for Chagas can be challenging, as the available drugs are not always effective and can cause severe side effects. However, early detection and intervention can significantly improve the prognosis for patients. Regular check-ups and monitoring are essential for those who have been diagnosed with Chagas.
It is important for healthcare providers and communities to educate themselves about Chagas disease and the risks associated with it. By raising awareness and advocating for better resources and support for Chagas sufferers, we can help prevent the spread of this deadly disease and improve the lives of those affected by it.
If you suspect that you or a loved one may have been exposed to Chagas disease, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in the outcome for patients. Let us all work together to raise awareness about Chagas and ensure that those affected receive the care and support they need.
