World Chagas Disease Day (April 14th)
Chagas disease, often dubbed the "silent or silenced disease," disproportionately affects impoverished populations lacking access to healthcare and political representation. This insidious illness typically progresses slowly, often exhibiting no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Untreated, Chagas disease can lead to severe cardiac and digestive complications, potentially becoming fatal. Raising awareness is crucial to improve early diagnosis and treatment rates, and to disrupt transmission cycles.
World Chagas Disease Day was first observed in 2020.
A Global Health Crisis
Chagas disease is a significant public health concern, with a global impact. An estimated 7 million people are currently infected worldwide, placing over 100 million at risk. Tragically, approximately 10,000 people die from the disease each year. While predominantly prevalent among marginalized populations in Latin America, the disease is increasingly detected in other countries and continents.
2025 Theme: Prevent, Control, Care: Everyone’s Role in Chagas Disease
In 2025, the focus is on shining a spotlight on Chagas disease's suffering and demanding equitable access to healthcare and services for all affected individuals. The disease is frequently described as "silent and silenced" because the majority of infected people experience either no symptoms or very mild ones. This underscores the vital role everyone plays in prevention, control, and access to care.
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