The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about 6-7 million people worldwide are infected with Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas disease, and some 12,000 deaths every year.

At least 75 million people are at risk of infection, with an estimated annual incidence between 30,000 and 40,000 cases.

However, in many countries, detection rates are low (less than 10 percent and often less than one percent), and people with the disease usually encounter significant barriers to diagnosis and adequate health care.

Experts stated that in recent years, climate change and global migration have extended the reach of the disease to several countries outside the Americas.

Early detection is essential as Chagas disease is curable when treatment is provided soon after infection.

ef/iff/ro/lpn