Cuba has developed groundbreaking biological technology which has prevented over 20,000 diabetic-related amputations and treated over 120,000 Cubans. Herberprot-P is a genetically engineered epidermal growth factor, a molecule that encourages cell growth and multiplication so when it is injected in a wound, or ulcer, it promotes wound healing.
In Britain diabetes is a rapidly escalating crisis. People living in poverty are two and a half times more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes type two, and then twice as likely to face serious complications than those not living in poverty (Diabetes UK). Between 2017 and 2020, 7,957 diabetic lower limb (toe, foot or leg) amputations took place in England. This is a substantial operation with a mortality rate of up to 17% within 30 days of surgery and of up to 80% five years post-surgery. The use of Heberprot-P has reduced the risk of amputation by over 70% in Cuba. It is registered in 24 countries worldwide. Due to the blockade, it is not available in the US. It is also not available in Britain.
The Cuban approach to medicine and biotechnology is generally rejected in the advanced capitalist countries. Manuel Raices from the Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology explained that in fighting cancer: ‘Our strategy is to train your body to attack the tumour itself and maintain an equilibrium. Why do [big pharma] companies not like this strategy? Because if I train your body to attack the tumour itself, I don’t need to create a factory to supply the pills that you have to take every day or every month to keep you alive; and then I have no market.’
This is why the example of socialist Cuba is such a threat to imperialism. Cuba promotes a system of planning and cooperation, in the interests of humanity and the planet, that stands in direct opposition to profit seeking under capitalism.
Ria Aibhilin
First published in FIGHT RACISM! FIGHT IMPERIALISM! 298 February/March 2024
Brigade to Cuba 2023/24
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