Episode 28 Summary
Join me on a ride through El Tambo Valley as we explore how to diagnose Chagas disease, a silent infection affecting millions across Latin America. In this episode, I cover the stages of the disease, methods for detecting it during the acute and chronic phases, and the challenges faced in rural areas. Learn about rapid tests, barriers to diagnosis, and the need for improved access to diagnostic services. Don't miss this crucial information and our continued journey through the scenic back roads of rural Loja Province.
Stay tuned for more episodes, and don't forget to subscribe to join the Ride Against Chagas!
Resources:
www.cdc.gov/ch...
iris.paho.org/...
Riding Against Chagas: Ecuador's Hidden Battle
This series showcases a motorcycle journey through Ecuador, blending adventure with ecological and cultural exploration. Each episode features a unique route, traversing diverse landscapes like the Andes, Pacific coast, cloud forests and the Southern Loja province. The riders face challenges like mechanical issues and navigation, while also engaging with local communities and critical topics, such as Chagas disease. The series captures the thrill of motorcycle adventuring, the beauty of Ecuador's varied geography, and highlights important health and ecological issues, offering a mix of excitement, natural wonder, and meaningful insights.
About the host
Dr. Mario J. Grijalva is a renowned academic at Ohio University, where he leads the Infectious and Tropical Disease Institute and teaches Microbiology. His primary research focus is on Chagas disease, a significant health issue in the Americas, especially in South and Central America. His work involves studying the pathology of Trypanosoma cruzi infection, understanding Chagas disease's biology and epidemiology, and enhancing blood supply safety in developing countries. Dr. Grijalva also actively engages in educational initiatives, including student-led field studies in Ecuador, and has established significant partnerships and research facilities focusing on tropical diseases, particularly Chagas disease. His contributions to infectious disease research and education have had a global impact. www.ohio.edu/m...
About Chagas
Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease caused by the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, affecting about 6 to 7 million people globally. Predominantly seen in Latin America, it poses a risk to an estimated 70 million people. Transmitted mainly by triatomine bugs, it can also spread through contaminated food, mother-to-child, blood transfusions, and organ transplants. Initial symptoms are often mild, but untreated, it can lead to serious heart and digestive problems. As a neglected disease, it receives limited attention for research, treatment, and prevention, impacting mostly poor and rural populations.
www.cdc.gov/pa...
www.paho.org/e...
www.who.int/ne...)
Collaborating institutions.
Ohio University www.ohio.edu/m...
Pontifical Catholic U. of Ecuador cisealpuce.edu...
Chagas Coalition www.coalicionc...
Attributions for music, pictures, etc.
Music source: Motion Array
Edition: M. Grijalva, Felipe Varela
Graphics: Biorender.com
28 сен 2024
