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Malnutrition has become an alarming cause of death in Cuba, as well as a reflection of the food crisis on the island, according to recent data from the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI).
Between 2022 and 2023, deaths associated with this condition increased by 74.42%, rising from 43 to 75 fatalities, making it the twentieth leading cause of death in the country, according to figures reported by El Toque.
The report details that the majority of those who died from malnutrition were men, with the number rising from 26 to 53 in one year, while among women, the increase was from 17 to 22.
The statistics correspond to the E40 to E46 ranges of the International Classification of Diseases by the World Health Organization, which include conditions such as kwashiorkor and marasmus, both indicators of severe malnutrition.
Impact on Children and the Elderly
International organizations such as UNICEF have raised concerns about the impact of this crisis on the most vulnerable groups, particularly children. For the first time, UNICEF included Cuba in its report on child food poverty, highlighting that less than 10% of children on the island have access to basic foods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, or fish.
Additionally, 9% of minors only consume two of the eight essential foods for a healthy life, a figure that could be even higher according to the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights (OCDH).
School nutrition has also been affected. According to the Food Monitor Program, 90% of primary schools lack access to drinking water, and students' diets are highly unbalanced, worsening issues such as undernutrition and "hidden hunger," the mentioned media outlet reported.
In the case of older adults, the high costs of services provided by the Family Care System (SAF) have led nearly half of the beneficiaries to abandon the program since 2021. This system, which used to provide food to vulnerable groups such as retirees and pensioners, increased its prices from 1 CUP to 26 CUP per day, leaving thousands without access to this essential support.
Causes of the food crisis
Cuba's reliance on imports, which account for over 80% of the basic food basket, combined with insufficient investment in the agricultural sector—remaining below 3% in 2024—exacerbates food insecurity.
This is compounded by the gradual reduction of food distributed through the ration book, leaving millions of Cubans in a constant struggle to obtain the essentials for survival.
Malnutrition, as indicated by the United Nations, is a preventable cause of death. However, the current reality in Cuba reflects a humanitarian crisis that demands immediate attention to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Food Crisis and Malnutrition in Cuba
Why has malnutrition increased in Cuba between 2022 and 2023?
The rise in malnutrition in Cuba is attributed to a severe food crisis, where reliance on imports, low investment in agriculture, and the deterioration of basic services have left the population without access to sufficient and nutritious food. This economic and social context has led to a 74.42% increase in deaths due to malnutrition.
How does the food crisis affect children and the elderly in Cuba?
The food crisis is severely impacting children and the elderly in Cuba. UNICEF has reported that less than 10% of children have access to essential foods, while high costs have forced many seniors to abandon food assistance programs. This situation increases the vulnerability of both groups, affecting their health and well-being.
What are the main causes of the food crisis in Cuba?
The food crisis in Cuba is driven by a high reliance on imports, which account for over 80% of the basic food basket, and minimal agricultural investment that does not exceed 3%. Additionally, failed economic policies have decreased the availability of food distributed through the rationing system, exacerbating the shortages.
What is the impact of the economic crisis in Cuba on the general population?
The economic crisis in Cuba has led to 89% of families living in extreme poverty, according to the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights. This situation has forced many families to skip daily meals due to food shortages and high prices, severely impacting the quality of life and health of the population.
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