Prevalence of trypanosomiasis in Southeast Asia over two decades: A meta-analysis

Trypanosomiasis is a major parasitic disease affecting livestock, wildlife, and rural livelihoods in Southeast Asia, causing economic losses through reduced productivity, reproductive disorders, and mortality. Predominantly caused by Trypanosoma evansi, its mechanically transmitted nature results in complex and variable epidemiological patterns. Reported prevalence estimates differ widely across countries, hosts, and diagnostic methods, complicating disease control efforts. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizes two decades of evidence to estimate pooled prevalence, investigate sources of heterogeneity, assess publication bias and temporal trends, and support regional surveillance and control strategies.