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Former Cuban Health Minister Julio Teja Pérez Passes Away

Thursday, July 10, 2025 by Ernesto Alvarez

Former Cuban Health Minister Julio Teja Pérez Passes Away
Julio Teja Pérez - Image © Facebook / José Angel Portal Miranda

The Cuban Ministry of Public Health has announced the passing of Julio Teja Pérez, a former minister and prominent figure within the state's framework, on July 8, 2025, in Havana at the age of 88.

Born on March 21, 1937, in Camagüey, Teja pursued a medical education at the University of Havana during the years leading up to 1959. While there, he engaged in student political activities opposing the dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista until he joined the Rebel Army as a medic. After the Revolution's success, he became part of the new government's health system framework.

Teja held the position of Minister of Public Health from 1985 to 1995, a period characterized by severe economic constraints that significantly affected the healthcare system, particularly following the Soviet bloc's collapse and the onset of the "Special Period." In addition to his ministerial role, he served as a member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and as a deputy in the National Assembly of People's Power.

The Cuban government emphasized his contributions to the national health system and his ideological commitment to the regime. "We learned with deep sorrow of the passing of Dr. Julio Teja Pérez, who served as Cuba's Minister of Public Health. His teachings, example, and revolutionary zeal have guided our sector's actions," stated current Minister José Ángel Portal Miranda on Facebook.

At the time of his death, Teja was working as a consulting professor at the National School of Public Health and was a member of the Cuban Societies of Public Health and the History of Medicine. He held a Doctorate in Health Sciences, was a Master in Health and Disasters, and an associate researcher. He authored several academic works and the book "The Practice of Cuban Public Health (1980–1995)," which focused on the era when he led the ministry.

Key Aspects of Julio Teja Pérez's Legacy

What were the main challenges during Julio Teja Pérez's tenure as Minister of Health?

Julio Teja Pérez served as Minister of Health during a time of significant economic hardship, especially after the collapse of the Soviet bloc, which led to the "Special Period" in Cuba, severely impacting the healthcare system.

What academic contributions did Julio Teja Pérez make?

Julio Teja Pérez was an accomplished academic, authoring several scholarly works and the book "The Practice of Cuban Public Health (1980–1995)," which analyzed the period when he was at the helm of the health ministry.

What roles did Julio Teja Pérez hold within the Cuban government?

Apart from his role as Minister of Health, Julio Teja Pérez was a member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and served as a deputy in the National Assembly of People's Power.

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