Iris Armas & Yicel López

Some 100,000 people from 91 countries, the majority from Cuba, have been treated at the International Center for Neurological Restoration (CIREN), since its creation almost 25 years ago, today announced experts in Havana.

Dr. Emilio Villa Acosta, president of CIREN commented that, since its founding – on July 26 1989 - by leader of the Cuban Revolution Fidel Castro, the institution has provided a unique neurological restoration program that combines basic and clinical research, medical diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation in all its forms and surgery.

CIREN is leader in its field in Latin America and its work on the development of, and treatment for, Parkinson’s disease as well as epilepsy and dystonias has had a global impact. Acosta highlighted that, the scientists at CIREN also investigate autism, brain damage, head injuries and medulla malfunction, among other illnesses.

The Center provides a multifaceted and intensive neurological reconstruction program, the only one of its kind in the world, which improves the patient’s chances of a successful recovery. Working on the program is a multidisciplinary team, led by a neurologist and made up of 13 medical and non-medical specialists who attend to patients seven hours a day, from Monday to Saturday, giving them thorough and personalized care, he noted.

Villa Acosta stated that CIREN’s research programs generate income which contributes to the institution’s economic sustainability. In line with the country’s Economic and Social Policy Guidelines, it provides international services which generate revenue, to fund new research.