The US government, under President Donald Trump, is preventing more than 100,000 Cubans. In need of improved health from accessing surgical procedures.
Cuban Deputy Minister of Public Health Carilda Peña reported that as of the end of last week, 95,555 patients were awaiting general surgery. While another 5,152 were waiting for cancer treatments.
“We can’t really say we’re at zero because enormous efforts are being made. All these patients are waiting for surgery,” the deputy minister stated during an appearance on Cuban Television.
It’s truly heartbreaking when someone knows they need treatment and can’t access it, and that’s a reality that threatens their quality of life.
Currently, due to U.S. restrictive measures, ensuring access to hemodialysis is a challenge. This has necessitated the hospitalization of patients who live far from healthcare centers because they lack transportation.
At this time, 2,888 Cubans are receiving hemodialysis treatment. A therapy highly dependent on supplies, water, and specialized equipment.
Among the measures adopted to guarantee treatment is increasing the reuse of dialyzers. Also this is a complex procedure that requires additional resources and a high level of technical expertise, the Vice Minister explained.
“In addition to the supply limitations, there are the disruptions caused by power outages and difficulties with the water supply. As well as other essential elements for ensuring the operation of hemodialysis units,” Peña argued.
With information from Prensa Latina
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