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Are increased chronic diseases a potential legacy of Cuba's special period?

Gail A Reed

    MEDICC Review
    |August 13, 2013
    PubMed

    Insights

    Cuba honors the egg with a monument, recognizing its vital role as a life saver for families during the severe economic hardships of the 1990s Special Period.

    Area of Science:

    • Cultural Anthropology
    • Economic History
    • Cuban Studies

    Background:

    • The Cuban economy faced severe challenges in the 1990s following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
    • This period, termed the "Special Period," saw an 85% reduction in aid and trade.

    Observation:

    • A monument dedicated to the egg is located on Fifth Avenue in Havana.
    • The sculpture is a tribute to the egg's significance as a crucial food source.

    Findings:

    • The egg, referred to as "salva vida" (life saver), was essential for Cuban families' survival.
    • The monument symbolizes the resilience and resourcefulness of the Cuban people during economic crisis.

    Implications:

    • The monument serves as a historical marker of Cuba's economic struggles and societal adaptation.
    • It highlights the importance of basic foodstuffs in times of extreme scarcity.
    • The tribute underscores the cultural significance of food and survival strategies in Cuba.

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