Trypanosoma cruzi seroprevalence and associated risk factors in cancer patients from Southern Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Chagas disease in patients treated at a Public Oncology Service in the City of Pelotas, Southern Brazil. Methods: This study included 200 individuals undergoing cancer treatment and involved the use of a questionnaire and venous blood collection for the detection of anti-Trypanosoma cruzi antibody. Results: The study found a 5% prevalence of patient seropositivity. Signifi cant variables are presented and discussed in the article. Conclusions: Serological T. cruzi checks are recommended in cancer patients, especially individuals from endemic areas in Brazil and other Latin American countries.