Unsatisfied basic needs in Venezuela: a public health challenge

The lack of access to basic services such as drinking water, electricity and food has generated a serious humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. This situation has had a negative impact on public health, as the incidence of diseases such as diarrhea, malnutrition and respiratory illnesses has increased.

According to a report by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), in 2023, more than 7 million Venezuelans did not have access to safe drinking water, representing 25% of the population. This situation has led to a significant increase in cases of diarrheal diseases, especially in children under 5 years of age.

The lack of access to electricity has also had a negative impact on the health of the population. Prolonged power outages have made it difficult to preserve food and medicines, which has increased the risk of food- and waterborne diseases. In addition, the lack of electricity has affected the functioning of health centers, making it difficult to care for patients with chronic diseases and medical emergencies.

The food crisis in Venezuela has also had a devastating impact on the health of the population. It is estimated that more than 9 million Venezuelans suffer from severe food insecurity, meaning that they do not have regular access to sufficient and nutritious food. This situation has generated a significant increase in cases of malnutrition, especially in children under 5 years of age.

The lack of access to basic services and the food crisis have generated a very worrisome public health panorama in Venezuela. Preventable diseases, such as diarrhea and malnutrition, have become a serious public health problem. In addition, the crisis has affected the functioning of the health system, making it difficult to care for patients with chronic diseases and medical emergencies.

The crisis in Venezuela has generated a serious public health situation that requires urgent attention. It is necessary that the international community take measures to guarantee the Venezuelan population's access to basic services such as drinking water, electricity and food. In addition, it is necessary to strengthen the health system so that it can provide quality medical care to the population.