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(Image source: Wikimedia Commons)
BY COLLIN RUANE ANCHOR LAUREN ZIMA
Rumors surrounding the health of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez are nothing new—the
news that he has cancer first came in 2011.
But now, official word coming out of Caracas from the country’s information minister
confirms the 58-year-old is in a critical state of health.
“Venezuela’s communications minister says Mr. Chavez is now suffering from a severe
infection and breathing problems, putting him in a very delicate state.”
The Miami Herald elaborates...
“… he suffered hemorrhaging and a severe respiratory infection that required a tracheotomy
to assist his breathing.”
There is speculation the announcement may have been an attempt to quiet protesters from
the opposition who have been on the streets demanding answers on Chavez’s condition.
But an infection could have serious implications on his cancer treatment. As a Georgetown University
oncologist told BusinessWeek...
“‘The respiratory infection can severely compromise his ability to tolerate chemotherapy
… He may survive two infections - but he will likely be quite weakened even upon recovery.’”
According to The Week, the Venezuelan leader has already chosen a successor—Vice President
Nicholas Maduro. Maduro says Chavez is in “good spirits,” and the government insists
Chavez is still in power.
While he remains out of the public eye, The Telegraph reports he is continuing to flex
his political muscle behind closed doors by using “writing and other means” to rule
at a time when speaking may not be an option.
It is still unknown what type of cancer Chavez is suffering from, though he has had several
surgeries. He was reelected in October, but unable to attend his January inauguration.