CABEI supports fight against pediatric cancer in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo, August 05, 2021.- The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) granted a non-reimbursable financial cooperation of US$1 million to the Dominican government for the acquisition of medical equipment for the detection and treatment of childhood cancer.

According to medical studies carried out by the Rosa Emilia Sanchez Perez de Tavarez National Cancer Institute (INCART), an average of 403 new cases of cancer in children should be diagnosed annually in the Dominican Republic, however, only 67% are detected at an early stage. This donation will provide the INCART Pediatric Oncology Unit with specialized, high-tech equipment to carry out this task in a timely manner.

CABEI Executive President, Dr. Dante Mossi said, "In the face of the global uncertainty brought on by the health crisis caused by the pandemic, we are pleased to be able to support causes that strengthen our member countries' health systems. We are pleased to make this important donation to the fight against pediatric cancer in order to provide new life opportunities for future generations.

The cooperation was channeled through the Cabinet for Children and Adolescents, chaired by First Lady Raquel Arbaje, who expressed her gratitude for CABEI's support for the oncopediatric unit project, which will provide specialized assistance to children and adolescents from vulnerable social sectors. "On behalf of the Dominican Government, the Cabinet for Children and Adolescents and on my own behalf, I salute this gesture of solidarity for better health for our children," added Arbaje.

The Minister of Economy, Miguel Ceara Hatton, thanked CABEI for financing technical assistance and social, economic and environmental development projects and programs, as well as its efforts in favor of Dominican children, reducing poverty and promoting regional integration, thus contributing to improving the people's quality of life, which is the commitment of the current government administration.

The agreement was signed by the Dominican Minister of Economy, Planning and Development, Miguel Ceara Hatton, representing the Dominican Government, and CABEI Country Chief Officer, Manuel Ogando. The First Lady of the Republic and President of the Children's Cabinet, Raquel Arbaje, and the Dominican Republic's Director to CABEI, Hostos Rizik Lugo, were present as witnesses of honor.