Synthesis of evidence: Guidance for the diagnosis and treatment of Chagas disease

Introduction

Chagas disease or American trypanosomiasis is caused by the flagellate protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted mainly by insect vectors (popularly known in the different areas of the Region of the Americas as “kissing bugs”, “pitos”, “chinches”, or “chirimachas” or “vinchuchas”). The parasite is transmitted via the placenta and in transfusions, and less frequently, orally or during organ transplantation.

Ferritin levels and COVID-19

[Extract-No abstract available] Ferritin is a key mediator of immune dysregulation, especially under extreme hyperferritinemia, via direct immune-suppressive and pro-inflammatory effects, contributing to the cytokine storm. It has been reported that fatal outcomes by COVID-19 are accompanied by cytokine storm syndrome, thereby it has been suggested that disease severity is dependent of the cytokine storm syndrome. Many individuals with diabetes exhibit elevated serum ferritin levels, and it is known that they face a higher probability to experience serious complications from COVID-19.

Ensuring health equity during the COVID-19 pandemic: the role of public health infrastructure

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly stressed public health systems around the world and exposed the gaps in health care for underserved and vulnerable populations. In the context of the social determinants of health, focusing on health system preparedness is paramount for protecting the health of all of society. Faced with old threats (e.g., re-emergence of measles), disruptive new technologies (e.g., electronic cigarettes), increased challenges (e.g.

Tuberculosis and HIV coinfection and related collaborative activities in Latin America and the Caribbean

Objective.

To inform about the most recent epidemiological trends and integrated programmatic response to tuberculosis (TB) and HIV coinfection in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

Methods.

A descriptive review analyzed the most relevant indicators on TB/HIV coinfection in 33 countries in LAC with a cross-sectional and time-trend approach. Data were obtained from publicly available databases and analyzed through simple proportions, weighted means, and risk ratios.

Distance learning and patient safety: Report and evaluation of an online patient safety course

Patient safety is a critical topic in health care globally, with implications for nurses, physicians, administrators, and most importantly, patients and their well-being. Online distance learning (ODL) is widely accepted among most disciplines in higher education and has been used to promote patient safety knowledge among health care students and professionals in diverse contexts.

Contributions of the More Doctors Program to the performance of Family Health teams concerning hypertension and diabetes care in Brazil, 2012 to 2015

Objective.

To compare temporal trends in access and utilization of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) and diabetes mellitus (DM) services provided by teams with or without physicians from the More Doctors Program (PMM).

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