Renowned Brazilian Indigenous leader Chief Raoni Metuktire has returned to his home in the country's heartland to receive palliative care following a cancer diagnosis at the age of 94, his institute announced on Monday.
The Raoni Institute confirmed that the chief was diagnosed with cancer in his digestive system. The diagnosis followed a hospitalization in June in São Paulo, where he was treated for a severe intestinal obstruction and underwent surgery. After his hospital stay, Raoni returned to the region of Peixoto de Azevedo, located in the state of Mato Grosso.
For decades, Raoni has been one of the most prominent global voices advocating for the protection of the Amazon rainforest and the rights of Indigenous peoples, traveling internationally to champion environmental preservation.
Doctors opted for palliative care given Raoni's advanced age, overall clinical condition, and the high risks associated with aggressive oncological treatments, the institute said.
“Palliative care does not mean an absence of treatment. The goal is to control pain and other symptoms, prevent complications, and ensure nutrition, hydration, medical supervision, nursing care, physical therapy, and the best possible quality of life,” the Raoni Institute explained.
Currently, the chief is resting at his home, where he is surrounded by his family, community members, and specialized medical teams. The institute noted that his care plan is designed to respect his heritage by integrating intercultural and spiritual support, which allows traditional Indigenous healers to work alongside modern medical professionals.
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