Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
This study estimated the seroprevalence and risk factors of Chagas disease (CD) in a population of the Quixeré municipality, Ceará.
METHODS:
We conducted serological methods to detect the Trypanosoma cruzi infection. The other variables were evaluated by a standardized questionnaire.
RESULTS:
The estimated prevalence of CD was 3.7%. Male sex, age >40 years, being farmers, low education level, origin from rural areas, and being born in Quixeré were significantly associated with infection.
CONCLUSION:
CD persists in this rural population of Northeast Brazil. Poverty, low education, and limited information regarding CD are critical issues that need to be addressed.
Keywords:
Chagas Disease; Trypanosoma cruzi; Seroepidemiologic studies; Epidemiology
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