María Elena Castro
Health and science correspondent documenting disease outbreaks, medical research, and regional health policies.
Latin American Healthcare Systems Face Strain as Out-of-Pocket Prescription Costs Rise Despite Universal Mandates
Despite constitutional guarantees of universal healthcare, rising out-of-pocket medication expenses and public supply bottlenecks are placing heavy financial burdens on millions of Latin American families.
7.4-Magnitude Earthquake Hits Western Colombia, Killing 100
A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, killing more than 100 people, injuring hundreds and triggering major rescue efforts.
Venezuela Earthquake Survivors Face Growing Health Emergency as Hospitals Struggle and Disease Spreads
Venezuela is facing a growing humanitarian crisis after devastating earthquakes left thousands dead, as displaced communities confront disease outbreaks, damaged hospitals and a lack of medical care.
Latin America Ages Faster Than Any Other World Region
Latin America is aging faster than any region in the world with a fertility rate of 1.8, posing enormous challenges for health and pension systems.
Bad Bunny Announces Latin American Stadium Tour for 2026
Bad Bunny announced La Nueva Religión Tour 2026, a stadium tour through Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Spain between September and December 2026.
Cuba Reforms Its Health System in Search of Quality Care
Cuba announces a historic reform of its health system that includes opening private clinics and reducing medical missions abroad for the first time in 60 years.