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Iran's approaching medical crisis

Summary

16 November 2012

Iran says its medical supplies are due to run out in two months’ time. The Iranian authorities say drug prices have gone up by 350% since this time last year. Western imposed sanctions on Iran have affected the lives of those who live there.

Reporter:

Karen Zarindast

Report

Manuchehr was only 15. He was a haemophiliac who lived with his family among nomadic tribes outside the city of Dezful in the south. Earlier this week he was out with his friends for a walk when he hurt himself falling. His friends rushed him back home for urgent medication, but there were no drugs left. His parents couldn't afford to pay for his prescriptions. He died on the way to the hospital.

As a result of his death, the authorities have for the first time said on the record that Iran is on the verge of a medical disaster. Ninety crucial drugs are in short supply, among them medication for cancer, diabetes and haemophilia. 

The Iranian currency, the rial, has reportedly lost 80% of its value since the end of last year. It is thought that Iran lost $32bn in oil revenues in 2011. Dollar reserves are running out and even though some sanctions were eased in October to allow in some drugs, the currency crisis has made it near impossible for Iran to buy them.