For the first time, a conference dedicated to Chagas disease research will be held on U.S. soil, marking a significant and symbolic moment for researchers, clinicians and public health leaders working to boost awareness of the disease in this country. The inaugural U.S. Chagas Disease Meeting will be hosted by Tulane University in New Orleans from March 26–27. It comes at a pivotal time, after some researchers last year argued that Chagas disease should be considered endemic in the United States.
Chagas disease is caused by a parasite carried by insects called kissing bugs. The disease is endemic in 21 countries in the Americas—not including the U.S.—and is considered a neglected and often underdiagnosed tropical disease by the Pan American Health Organization. If left untreated, Chagas disease can cause severe heart complications that could lead to heart failure. Chagas disease can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy.
Scientists say recognition of the disease as endemic to the U.S. can help boost surveillance, testing and research efforts while also improving public awareness.
“Our goal is to help build a stronger, more connected network that can advance research and ultimately improve outcomes for patients affected by Chagas disease in the U.S. and across the Americas,” said Chagas disease researcher and event organizer Claudia Patricia Herrera, assistant professor at the Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine at Tulane University.
The inaugural U.S.-based Chagas disease conference reflects growing recognition that Chagas disease is not only a global health concern, but also an issue with increasing relevance for U.S. public health. Approximately 300,000 Americans may be infected with Chagas disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The meeting will convene experts from across the country to discuss diagnosis, screening, research and patient care.
For interviews, please contact Tulane University Assistant Director of Media Relations Andrew Yawn at ayawn@tulane.edu.