Chavez suffers as breathing deteriorates

A new and severe respiratory infection has hit cancer-stricken Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and his breathing has deteriorated.

Communications Minister Ernesto Villegas read a brief statement on national television saying Mr Chavez’s “worsening respiratory function” was related to a weakening of his immune system.

He said the socialist leader, 58, had “a new and severe infection”. The state news agency identified it as a respiratory infection.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Mr Villegas said Mr Chavez had been undergoing “chemotherapy of strong impact, among other treatments”.

He said Mr Chavez’s condition continued to be very delicate and that he was “standing by Christ and life conscious of the difficulties he faces”.

There has been speculation that cancer has spread to his lungs and cannot be halted.

The president reportedly began receiving chemotherapy around the end of January. Doctors have said such therapy could have been palliative, to extend his life and ease his suffering.

Related topics: