Witness History
Cuban blindness
Feb 5, 2025
Dr. Alfredo Sadun, one of America's top eye specialists, investigates a mysterious blindness epidemic in 1990s Cuba, where 50,000 people lost their sight during a severe economic crisis. Dr. Sadun recounts his urgent mission, facing potential dangers while collaborating with Fidel Castro. Initial fears of a viral cause shift to uncover that methanol poisoning from bootleg rum was to blame. The findings led to crucial health interventions, showcasing the struggles and resilience of Cuban society during this difficult period.
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Quick takeaways
- Dr. Alfredo Sadun's investigation into the Cuban blindness epidemic revealed key links between malnutrition and methanol exposure from bootleg rum consumption.
- The effective mass supplementation of folic acid and vitamin D, based on Dr. Sadun's recommendations, significantly halted the epidemic and improved public health.
Deep dives
The Blindness Epidemic in Cuba
In the early 1990s, Cuba experienced a severe economic crisis, leading to widespread food shortages and an alarming epidemic of blindness affecting around 50,000 people. The World Health Organization identified potential viral origins for this condition and sought the expertise of Dr. Alfredo Sadun, a specialist in optic nerve diseases. Despite initial skepticism from the Cuban officials, Dr. Sadun, along with his team, began an urgent investigation into the epidemic to determine its cause. His arrival in Cuba coincided with the nation’s struggles, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, which intensified the urgency of addressing this unprecedented health crisis.
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