The World Health Organization is calling for stronger efforts to protect women from Chagas disease, warning that they remain among the most affected yet least supported groups in the global response.
Marking World Chagas Disease Day on April 14, the WHO said nearly two million women between the ages of 15 and 44 are currently living with the disease worldwide.
Health experts say women are not the cause of the disease, but they play a critical role in stopping its spread, especially from mother to child during pregnancy.
According to the WHO, between three and five per cent of babies born to infected mothers are at risk of contracting the disease before birth.
The disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and is mainly spread through triatomine insects, commonly known as “kissing bugs.”
Although symptoms can initially appear mild, including fever, fatigue and swelling, untreated infections can later develop into serious heart and digestive complications.
The WHO said women often face stigma, poor access to testing and limited treatment options, despite the fact that early intervention can dramatically reduce transmission risks.
Experts noted that treatment before pregnancy can almost completely prevent the disease from being passed to babies, while early diagnosis in newborns can result in cure rates of more than 90 per cent.
Available treatments include Benznidazole and Nifurtimox, which are most effective when given early.
The WHO is urging governments to expand screening programmes for women, particularly before pregnancy, and to make newborn testing a routine part of maternal healthcare.
The organisation also stressed the need for stronger public education to challenge misconceptions and encourage women to seek treatment early.
While Chagas disease has long been associated with Latin America, experts warn that migration and changing transmission patterns are increasing its spread to other parts of the world.
