The Cuban government recently released a statement through Cubadebate, attempting to explain the alarming 148% increase in infant mortality rates from 2018 to 2025. The explanation largely attributes this rise to the U.S. embargo, while downplaying internal issues that have driven the healthcare system to the brink of collapse.
According to the Ministry of Public Health (Minsap), the infant mortality rate surged from 4.0 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2018 to 9.9 in 2025, marking the highest level in decades. The government itself acknowledges this as "one of the most challenging periods for the Maternal and Child Care Program since its inception."
The Blame on U.S. Embargo
The core argument presented is that "Cuba's healthcare system is unable to import medical technologies containing U.S. components due to commercial and financial restrictions imposed by the United States on the island."
To support this stance, the regime references a report from the Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR), a progressive think tank based in Washington. The report suggests that around 1,800 fewer infants would have died between 2019 and 2025 if the rate had remained at 4.0, with 402 preventable infant deaths occurring in 2025 alone.
Counterpoints and Omitted Facts
However, this official narrative neglects to mention certain facts that challenge this perspective. The U.S. Embassy in Havana reported that in 2023, medical exports to Cuba were approved for over $800 million, double the amount in 2021, contradicting claims of a total blockade on healthcare technology.
Even the Minister of Public Health, José Ángel Portal Miranda, admitted to the National Assembly in July 2025 that the system is facing an "unprecedented structural crisis," with basic medication coverage at a mere 30%.
Internal Challenges Contributing to the Crisis
The crisis is exacerbated by issues the government chooses to ignore: the mass exodus of medical professionals, crumbling hospital infrastructure, corruption, and decades of mismanagement under the dictatorship.
The infant mortality rate has progressively worsened: 5.0 in 2019, 4.9 in 2020, 7.5 in 2021 and 2022, escalating to 9.9 in 2025. Havana recorded 14 infant deaths per 1,000 live births between January and February 2026, the highest in over two decades for the capital.
Demographic and Resource Challenges
Cuba's demographic crisis further complicates the situation: in 2025, only 68,051 births were reported, 3,108 fewer than in 2024. More than 25.7% of the population is over 60 years old, and the birth rate has been steadily declining for decades.
In April 2026, reports indicated that over 32,000 pregnant women were at risk due to the energy crisis and shortages of medications, fuel, and basic medical equipment.
Minsap concluded its article with a promise that starkly contrasts the reality facing Cuban families: "Our priority remains the same: ensuring that being born and growing up in Cuba are synonymous with care, hope, and the future."
Understanding Cuba's Infant Mortality Crisis
What is the main reason given by the Cuban government for the rise in infant mortality?
The Cuban government primarily blames the U.S. embargo for the increase in infant mortality, citing restrictions on importing medical technologies with U.S. components.
How has the U.S. responded to claims of a total blockade on healthcare technology?
The U.S. Embassy in Havana reported that in 2023, medical exports to Cuba totaled over $800 million, which refutes the claim of a total blockade on healthcare technology.
What internal factors are contributing to Cuba's healthcare crisis?
Internal factors include the exodus of medical professionals, deteriorating hospital infrastructure, corruption, and decades of poor management under the dictatorship.