A Paraguayan researcher has reached an important academic milestone with a publication in a leading global health journal. Derlis Duarte-Zoilan recently published a study derived from his doctoral thesis. The article appeared in Infectious Diseases of Poverty, a respected publication in tropical medicine and global health. His achievement highlights the growing international presence of Paraguayan researchers.
Duarte-Zoilan is a doctoral scholarship holder supported by the “Carlos Antonio López” National Scholarship Programme (BECAL). The programme operates under Paraguay’s Ministry of Economy and Finance. The scholarship aims to strengthen national academic development and scientific production. Duarte-Zoilan’s work reflects the programme’s impact on international research networks.
Research focused on migrant health
The study is titled “Clinical and epidemiological features of schistosomiasis among sub-Saharan African migrants in Barcelona, Spain”. It examines the characteristics of schistosomiasis in migrants treated at a specialised health centre. The research was conducted in Barcelona, Spain, where the researcher currently lives and studies. The findings contribute to ongoing efforts to better understand tropical diseases in migration contexts.
The investigation identified a high prevalence of infection, with most cases showing no symptoms. This situation highlights the importance of early diagnosis through accessible testing methods. The study also emphasises the need for systematic screening programmes in vulnerable communities. These measures can help control neglected tropical diseases and reduce long-term complications.
According to the research, early detection can improve public health outcomes among migrant populations. The evidence supports the development of targeted health policies and preventive strategies. The paper also reinforces the importance of coordinated medical responses in international health settings. The study, therefore, has relevance beyond its immediate research context.
Academic journey of Paraguayan Duarte-Zoilan
Paraguayan Duarte-Zoilan is currently completing a PhD in medicine with a focus on infectious diseases. He is studying at the Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona in Spain, thanks to a scholarship from the Paraguayan state. His academic path has included training at several institutions across several countries. This diverse background has shaped his focus on epidemiology and public health.
He graduated from the Universidade Federal da Integração Latino-Americana in Brazil. Later, he obtained a specialisation in university teaching at the Universidad Autónoma del Paraguay. He also completed a master’s degree in epidemiology at the Universidad de Antioquia. These experiences helped build the foundation for his current doctoral research.
Strengthening Paraguay’s scientific presence
From the BECAL programme, officials highlighted the significance of achievements like this publication. Academic contributions of this kind help position Paraguay within international research communities. At the same time, these contributions also encourage future generations of scholars to pursue advanced training abroad.
Duarte-Zoilan’s work offers valuable evidence for designing public health policies focused on migrant populations. Also, it reinforces the importance of early detection strategies for parasitic diseases. His research demonstrates how Paraguayan professionals can contribute to global health challenges. As a result, his publication stands as a meaningful example of international academic collaboration and progress.
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