Chagas Disease Among Latin American Immigrants in Los Angeles

Among 4755 persons tested, prevalence was 1.24%.

Approximately 6 million persons worldwide have Chagas disease (CD), and most are in Latin America. Indirect estimates suggest that as many as 300,000 persons in the U.S. could be infected. However, these data are based on blood-bank screening programs, and because many Latin American immigrants may not donate blood, prevalence in the U.S. may be underestimated

To better understand the prevalence and risk factors for CD among Latin American immigrants in Los Angeles, the Center of Excellence for Chagas Disease tested 4755 adults who attended health fairs at churches and community organizations in that city; 67% were from Mexico, 17% were from El Salvador, and 10% were from Guatemala.

Among these immigrants, 59 had serologically confirmed CD, f…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

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Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Chagas Disease Among Latin American Immigrants in Los Angeles

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Reviewing Author