Chagas disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis, is a neglected tropical disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. It affects an estimated 8 million people worldwide, including approximately 280,000 individuals in the United States, many of whom remain unaware of their infection. Despite its widespread impact, only around 10% of cases are diagnosed, contributing to nearly 12,000 deaths annually and leaving approximately 75 million people at risk globally.
The disease remains a major public health concern across Latin America due to its significant social, economic, and healthcare burden. In endemic regions of the Americas, approximately 28,000 new infections are reported each year. Chronic infection can lead to severe complications, particularly affecting the cardiovascular system, with nearly 1 in 10 infected individuals developing serious cardiac disease. In highly affected countries such as Bolivia, prevalence rates may reach as high as 6 cases per 100 people.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Chagas disease is endemic in 21 countries across Latin America. These include Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. The disease is increasingly recognized as a global health issue due to migration, urbanization, and international travel.
Early diagnosis, improved screening programs, vector control, and access to treatment remain essential strategies for reducing the long-term impact of Chagas disease and preventing life-threatening complications.
Reference
Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis). World Health Organization. Updated 2026. Available at: WHO Chagas Disease Fact Sheet
About Chagas Disease. CDC. Updated September 4, 2024. Available at: CDC About Chagas Disease
Winters R, Nguyen T, Waseem M. . In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025
Chagas Disease. CDC Parasites and Health. Available at: CDC Chagas Disease Overview
Chagas disease overview and epidemiology. Available at: WHO Health Topic: Chagas Disease