KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PERCEPTION OF CHAGAS DISEASE IN AN URBAN CENTER OF REFERENCE

Abstract

The trend for the coming decades of Chagas disease is the dispersion to urban centers. The aim of this study was to explore, through a survey, the knowledge, attitudes and perception of Chagas disease of 153 adults who attended the Instituto Nacional de Parasitología, Buenos Aires, Argentina, from March to October 2004 for confirmation of diagnosis. We identified a basic knowledge related to vector and heart disease (66%). Of the 153 adults, 62% were considered serious cases and once diagnosis was known, 80% looked for advice. Eighty four percent did not consider themselves disabled, but when they were trying to apply for formal jobs, difficulties in taking up employment were observed. When they were asked to make suggestions for improvement, 56% of their proposals highlighted the importance of new treatments, information and more visibility for Chagas disease. This work reveals a limited knowledge and perception of severity of Chagas disease along with willingness to develop activities for support, education and prevention in this population