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The Chagas non-endemic (ChaNoE) cohort: Aims and study protocol
Pau Bosch-Nicolau1,2, Juan María Herrero-Martínez3, Marta Arsuaga2,4
1International Health Unit Vall d'Hebron-Drassanes, Infectious Diseases Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, PROSICS Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
Plos One
|April 15, 2025
Summary
This study establishes the Chagas non-endemic cohort (ChaNoE) in Spain to standardize care for Chagas disease (CD). It aims to improve diagnosis, track progression, and find biomarkers for this neglected tropical disease.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Tropical Medicine
- Cardiology
Background:
- Chagas disease (CD), caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, is a neglected tropical disease with increasing prevalence in non-endemic regions like Spain.
- Chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy (CCC) and digestive issues are key concerns, but diagnostic and treatment standards are debated.
- An estimated 50,000 individuals in Spain live with CD, highlighting a significant public health challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish the Chagas non-endemic cohort (ChaNoE) across multiple Spanish centers for individuals with chronic CD.
- To standardize diagnostic and treatment protocols for Chagas disease in a non-endemic setting.
- To identify biomarkers for disease progression and treatment response through a dedicated biobank.
Main Methods:
- Recruitment of individuals with confirmed Chagas disease diagnosis (two positive serological tests).
- Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations including ECG, echocardiography, serological, and PCR assessments.
- Establishment of a biobank for serum samples to support biomarker research.
Main Results:
- The ChaNoE cohort provides a standardized approach to managing Chagas disease in Spain.
- It facilitates research into disease progression, particularly CCC and digestive complications.
- The cohort enables comparison with endemic regions and supports biomarker discovery.
Conclusions:
- The ChaNoE initiative addresses critical gaps in understanding and managing Chagas disease in non-endemic areas.
- Standardized protocols and biomarker research are crucial for improving patient care and public health strategies.
- This research strengthens networks and informs efforts to mitigate the impact of Chagas disease globally.
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