Is Cystic Echinococcosis/Hydatidosis being ignored? A look into the epidemiological situation in Peru

Abstract

Background: Cystic Echinococcosis is a neglected disease in Latin American countries. In Peru, reported rates are underestimated due to poor disease surveillance and follow-up. The objective of this study was to estimate the incidence rates by department and province, stratified by sex and age in Peru during 2016 - 2018.

Methods: Data were obtained from the National Epidemiology Center of Peru. A descriptive analysis of incidence rates by department, province, sex, and age group was performed. An investigation was also carried out between sex and age group with the location of the cyst and if there were any complications due to Cystic Echinococcosis using Poisson regression; prevalence ratios (PR) were reported.

Results: The highest incidence rate per 100,000 inhabitants was reported at the departmental level in Pasco (140.43), then at the provincial level in Huanca Sancos (1004.98), and in the 75 - 80 years age group (109.61). The female sex has an incidence of 82.93. A higher location in the lungs was found in adults (PR = 1.51) and a lower one in women (PR = 0.79). The topmost proportion of complications was found in the elderly (PR = 18.42).

Conclusion: The figures indicate that the distribution of the disease is well-defined in the high Andean zone of Peru, and the incidence rates are high compared to what is reported by national and international entities. Surveillance must be correctly focused on the areas with the highest rates.