Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Adam James, Madison, WI — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:14:50 GMT

Doesn't matter where it's from, it's good news. I hope the Cuban government continues to deregulate and starts the transition to the market and that the next President acts to normalize relations. It's important for both of our countries.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

cdugga — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:26:38 GMT

Litigation from the few that are harmed out of the thousands that could be helped prevents dozens of drugs like this from already being marketed in the US.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

James Hodges, Tampa Florida — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:27:36 GMT

This is a relief. Since I cannot afford health insurance here in the United States its nice to know that I can fly over to Cuba and get top notch healthcare for my lung cancer...probably for free.

This is further proof that the US needs to implement socialized healthcare.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Paul McFarland, Guy, Arkansas — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:29:18 GMT

With more than 7,000 scientists dedicated to researching new drugs, Cuba has one of the most sophisticated biotech industries in the developing world. Last year the country earned $350 million from exporting 180 different medicines.

WTF - what did we spend the money on - Tanks?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Doe — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:30:49 GMT

There are smart people everywhere!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Aaron B, Phoenix, AZ — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:45:08 GMT

Forgive me for saying so but this article sounds a little like something from The Onion. Cuba develops revolutionary cancer treatment! See? Hard to believe.
Well, I am very happy that we have more treatment options, of course.
Kudos to Cuba and the Socialist System (Sarcasm)

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Red Blooded American — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:07:07 GMT

If you want socialized medicine, go to Cuba... and stay there!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

NEFI ARCE INDIO, CA — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:12:35 GMT

US LATINOS HAVE ALWAYS KNOWN ABOUT CUBAS SUPERIOR HEALTH SYSTEM AND TREATMENTS. I'M GLAD MORE WHITE AMERICANS ARE STARTING TO GET MORE INFORMED. IF YOU NEED THE HELP HERES A TIP, YOU HAVE TO TRAVEL THROUGH MEXICO. CONSIDER THIS ISSUE ON YOUR WAY TO THE POLLS.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

NEFI ARCE INDIO, CA — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:15:07 GMT

I DON'T THINK OUR DRUG COMPANIES WILL LIKE THE COMPETITION. THEY PROBABLY WILL JUST RELEASE A NEW FORM OF CANCER THAT IS IMMUNE TO TREATMENT TO MAKE UP THEIR PROFIT

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Proud to be an American, Miami FL — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:20:22 GMT

What a bunch of garbage, simple and honest Cubans are not able to get even a simple antibiotic from the Communist Government and they now claim they have this wonderful cancer drug. If you all want "free medicine" move to the island, make sure you adapt to a total control type of government where you have NO rights. You can get anything in Cuba IF you have Dollars and you are a turist, not as a citizen. Stop complaining, we live in the best country in the entire world! Nice journalisim MSNBC....(sarcasm too!).

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Juan Candal, San Juan, PR — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:25:08 GMT

Why does the USA have a double standard vs Cuba. Cuba has no different form of Government that does China and North Vietnam. Cuba would be an excellent choice for people who need this treatment and compared to what it would cost elsewhere, financially feasible. Forget about politics, health is a number 1 priority!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Margaret W.,Amityville ,NY — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:26:28 GMT

When will people realize that Cuba is making great strides while we are lagging far behind! Could it be that it is not the interest of helping people that rules our research but the almighty dollar?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

USA Citizen, Miami FL — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:33:06 GMT

There is nothing to report here except the fact that MSNBC is glamorizing a communist brutal regime. Ordinary Cubans do not have what we all read and believe, they struggle every day even the doctors struggle. They do not get the medical care we get here - believe me. Hospitals are a disgrace, but then again, if you have dollars and you are a tourist, they will get you anything. Wake up! this is the best place on earth.
PS: Ask Canadians why they come here for medical treatment?...it's called Socialism.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Andres, New Jersey — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:42:13 GMT

Nefi Arce, your "SUPERIOR HEALTH SYSTEM AND TREATMENTS" Cuba has ruined hospitals with septics enviroments even in the intensive therapy guard, no medice. Pleople get to know what their illnes is, but they do not have medice to cure it. The "family doctor" system is a fraud and... everything is not paid by the goverment but by the people that pay a 95% of their salaries in "ghost taxes".

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Matt , Minneapolis, MN — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:58:06 GMT

I'm curious what the side effects are, and why they aren't disclosed. The other question I have is why the FDA turns away good medicines like Vioxx in all cases just because of concern over a few small cases. All treatments involve risk and if those risk are known to the doctor and told to the patient the patient assumes responsibility for those risks even if they included death. If there's a 50% chance of death with a drug I won't take it but if there's a .0001% chance I will probably. We are so afraid of lawsuits that one death is too many and we need the perfect drug for everyone which may never exist. We should find a good drug for most and monitor those who fit the risk profile the closly, or not give them the drug at all.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Alex, Milwaukee, WI — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:05:39 GMT

I think it should be common knowledge by now that Cuba has had exemplary healthcare availabe to their citizens for most of the last decade. Our healthcare system can learn a lot from theirs

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Mike, Long Island, NY — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:09:18 GMT

In America we have many drugs in development for lung cancer. They are not being marketed yet because of the strict safety and efficacy regulations of the FDA. I doubt very highly if this new vaccine has been tested as thouroughly by Cuba with their weak regulatory environment. If this was made in America you can bet that everyone would be saying how the FDA is in league with drug companies to produce shoddy drugs for profit.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Ed,Tucson Arizona — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:24:43 GMT

We may live in the best country in the world but we need to improve things like infant mortality rates(we're behind Cuba),pollution, etc. This is a scientific "medical" article. We don't need to resurrect the ghost of Mas Canosa,(whom could have been treated for his lymphoma in Cuba instead of dying in the US). Cubanos do quite a bit with very little.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Julian E, AZ — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:24:44 GMT

Some fools are still upping up this antics "I am American, buy and Support only American, etc. etc..." You are blind to many things and obstinate...you fail to recognize or utilize human breakthrough that any other nations can contribute to the betterment of fellow mankind.

Word of advice for you the foolhardy; take it or leave it....History is dotted with unrecoverable failures of great nations whose citizen remain complecent to the little positive contributions of the lowest and common man that leaves outside their boundaries of reality. Yes I am American and very patroitic but not fooled by antics nor blind by emotions. I learn from the best.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

m bolevska — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:25:03 GMT

it is wellknown outside of the USA, that Cuba has fantastic doctors and healthcare system.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Omar — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:28:45 GMT

...7000 scientists working on developing medicine. I wonder when we compare this number as a percentage of all scientist in Cuba to the percentage of our scientist working on new drug development how do we measure up as far as urgency to save lives? I know our healthcare system regularly allows people to die because they cannot pay for the right care....something is wrong with picture...greatest country in the world? maybe the richest. People should not be denied the right medical care because they cannot pay for it in the greatest country in the world.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

ben, san diego ca — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:29:17 GMT

I am tired of people promoting free health care! Who do people think they are, wanting their government to provide for them when they are sick? Living a healthy and long life should not be a right; it is a privilege that comes with a prize tag. If you can’t afford to be healthy then that is too bad. It is bad enough that we have a socialized education and we know how bad of an idea that is, right. It is bad enough that the government forces an educated pop. Now they want a health one too? (Sarcasm too!) If Americans weren't so ethnocentric they would know that Cuba has the highest rate of doc. per capita. Their principle export is doctors. I guess that is what you get with a free education through and through. How much is a decent medical school in the states $200,000?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Jane Franklin, Montclair, New Jersey — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:45:34 GMT

For those of us who have had or have cancer, every advance brings hope of ever better prevention and treatment. Please keep us informed.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Ernie Mercer, Northfield, NJ — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:45:38 GMT

"WTF - what did we spend the money on - Tanks?" $580 billion in Iraq, for starters. Also, US drug manufacturers spend more on marketing than they do on research.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

MAU OH PHI PA — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:46:39 GMT

THE PERSON FROM MIAMI MUST BE A CUBAN WHO CAN NOT SEE GOOD THINGS COMING FROM CUBA WHAT A DISGRACE . WAY TO GO CUBA SCIENTIST .

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Millie Sapru New Jersey — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 23:35:03 GMT

I'm a cuban and very happy about the break in cancer treatment.Cuba Drs are very hard working and making breat progress, and what are we doing in USA for better medical care I hope we learnd something. And that Cuban from Miami what do you expect in Miami they have no praid, give him a burger Millie

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

John Doe — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 23:44:03 GMT

Again we have people talking about healthcare that don't have any idea as to how it is paid for and by who. Most cancer drugs in the US are covered by Medicare. And most people who get cancer are on Medicare. The simple fact is just like anything else in the US you get what you pay for. If you want care dumbed down for all you will get a dumbed down health care system.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Kay, Mississippi — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:37:41 GMT

"....some fortunate patients lived for up to 18.53 months while taking the new vaccine..." If you have ever watched a loved one suffer and die from lung cancer, you would know that the "extra time" is NOT a blessing! It's hell for the patient, and family never forget the agony they see in his/her eyes. For most victims, the quicker they die, the better it is for them. My dad wanted to die; and we were happy for him when he passed.Lung cancer takes a big, husky man and turns him into an invalid--so sad.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

me,hillsboro,or — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:48:59 GMT

I agree with many of you----if you want socialized medicine move to a country that offers it. Who do you think pays for this type of health care system? We do, hard working american citizens who can barely put food on the table and gas in their car as it is, now were are taxed yet again so everyone can have health care? It is not that I am heartless I do feel for anyone who can not get the care they need but I just can't see how socialized medicine is going to solve the problem, everyone may have health care but what other unforseen issues would rise from this? If the government were willing to put the billions into health care for the uninsured instead of the war, now were talkin...there doesn't seen to be any money when it comes to health care or shelter for the homeless or education things every american pays for every week out of their hard earned pay and property taxes but there is always money for war, $2500 hammers and toilet seats. The government in this country does what they want when they want cause they can. I for one can not afford to pay any more than I already do. And to add to this now the illegal aliens get social security something most of them never paid a dime into, they have it made, free lunch school programs, social security money they never put into, and don't pay taxes....and of course FREE MEDICAL something americans do not have the luxury of having, all I can say is what a countyr.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

John — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 01:01:30 GMT

Don't believe all the rhetoric yu here about how great the Cuban health care system is - why are thousands trying to flee that country. If you want socailaized medicine here be ready for $8.00 a Gallon gas, $50.00 for a case of beer, a bottle of liquor or a bottle of wine. Cigarettes will cost $10.00 a pack and you will be assessed a 10% payroll tax to get the program started. Then you will have the pleasure of waiting months to see a Dr. all the while you may have cancer spreading inside your body. Enough people die waiting for organ transplants here and that number will go up five fold with socialized care. But as I here a lot of idiots say "it's free". The truth is it is only free to the non-working/non-productive citizens while the middle class will pay for it and the rich will buy their own insurance and bump the poor slobs waiting in line for care. In addition to all this wonderful news another result will be higher costs for all goods and services and a near 10% unemployment rate like it is in Europe. Sound sooooo... great can't wait to sign up.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Debb , southwestern ontario , canada — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 01:05:28 GMT

For those of us who have had or HAVE cancer, every advance brings hope of better prevention and treatment. I don't care who finds what first i have been battling malignant melanoma ( skin cancer ) since 2003 .

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Mike — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 01:30:58 GMT

Free socialized medicine? Are you serious? Nothing is free, you pay for it one way or another. Either you give up most of the money you earn through taxes or you write a check at the doctor's office, you still have to pay for your treatment. Cuba is a nation of poverty and corruption. Socialism at it's finest. If the socialist/communist government worked, cuba would be a a successfull, thriving nation. It's not. Sometimes people just don't want to be bothered with facts.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

ABHI bUCH, San DSiego, CA — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 01:41:04 GMT

The Lung Cancer dfrug developed in Cuba is undergoing review in a few NON_COMMUNIST countries in Europ[e, wherre very strict test protocols are observed. If ther U.S. can cosy up to China, it can certainly get over its vengeful, paranoid treatment of Cuba and benefit both countries. The FREE market is not really so, and we tend to have amind-set left over fromthe 50's in this matter. Think for yourserlf, and don't let the State Department be your only mentor. America has Freedom: use it.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

John Wisconsin — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 01:46:51 GMT

Don't believe all the rhetoric you here about how great the Cuban health care system is - why are thousands trying to flee that country. If you want socialized medicine here be ready for $8.00 a Gallon gas, $50.00 for a case of beer, a bottle of liquor or a bottle of wine. Cigarettes will cost $10.00 a pack and you will be assessed a 10% payroll tax to get the program started. Then you will have the pleasure of waiting months to see a Dr. all the while you may have cancer spreading inside your body. Enough people die waiting for organ transplants here now and that number will go up five fold with socialized care. But as I hear a lot of idiots say "it's free". The truth is it is only free to the non-working/non-productive citizens while the middle class will pay for it and the rich will buy their own insurance and bump the poor slobs waiting in line for care. In addition to all this wonderful news another result will be higher costs for all goods and services and a near 10% unemployment rate like it is in Europe. Sound sooooo... great can't wait to sign up.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Hedge-Hog, San Antonio — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 01:53:36 GMT

Let's just blame Bush and his New World Order for causing cancer in the first place.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Juan Doe, Albany NY — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:18:58 GMT

I find it amazing to read comments from people who 1) have absolutely no idea what is taking place in Cuba 2)have never stepped foot in Cuba, but begin to profess they know how good the Cuban people have it. I am not going to waste my time trying to educate the ignorant, but I can tell you, I have spent much time in Cuba over the last 11 years. Any of you, who profess that Cuba has a sufficient universal health care system, you are moronic. Really, just plain stupid. Please, go there. Live as the average Cuban lives, then get on your computer, (oops, you won't have access to one or internet service), then begin to tell me how wonderful there health care system is. I am not saying the U.S. system is perfect, but you spoiled, whining people need to travel outside of your cocoon, wake up, and be thankful for what you have. Bottom line, if you are going to come onto this site and defend the Cuban gov't's horrific treatment of it's people, please cry yourself to sleep. And pray God forgives you, you are PATHETIC!
ps. if Cuba does seriously have a remedy/cure/treatment for Cancer, I say God Bless those individuals, the world should support their research, but I know better, stay tuned.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Jim Landelius — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:31:01 GMT

All those who keep saying what great healthcare Cuba has, let me ask you a question. Have you ever BEEN there? Have you seen the hospitals? Have you seen the pharmacies?
Because I knew an administrator, I got to tour one of their "nicer" hospitals in Camaguey, the third largest city. The equipment in the intensive care unit was like everything else in Cuba, 50 years behind the US. Patients have to bring their own bedding and there is no cafeteria. Their family has to bring their meals to them.

They do have free health care, but despite their "awesome" pharmacological discoveries, I didn't discover any medicine in their pharmacies.

As whacked out as health care is here in America, if I were hurt or extremely sick THIS is the country I'd rather be in!!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Charles, Miami Fla. — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 03:14:33 GMT

God Bless the Cuban Government. Thank you men and women doctor's of Cuba for all your hard Work.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

john doe, seatle, washington — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 03:28:52 GMT

That's wonderful. Even if it's only a year.
All tho, I'm sure there's a diet that can prevent and even reverse, any cancer.
These "pharm" companies, be them commies or capitalist, probably don't want to loose their big bucks to a 'no cancer' society.
It's a good thing these companies are all mere mortals. It's easy to fix problems having to do with mere mortals.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

julie — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 03:29:13 GMT

any cure is a good cure

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

J. Firtel Trenton,NJ — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 03:43:52 GMT

It's pretty sad when we think our medical research is the only one that's any good. We are not the only country in the world that has the know how to develop effective medications.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Barb in Wasilla, Alaska — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 04:27:26 GMT

"...With more than 7,000 scientists dedicated to researching new drugs..."
That little tiny island has 7,000 scientists!!!
And just researching new drugs. I wonder how many other scientists they have researching other fields.
This should be tremendously embarassing for the U.S.
We are more than a third of the North American continent, can spend trillions on war, but can't take care of our own citizens, thanks to the greed and power of Corporate America.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Elizabeth, Ohio — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 04:47:05 GMT

Just ask the Canadians how long they have to wait to get even the simplest things done. Ask if they have a choice of doctors. Ask if their doctors are permitted to use their professional skills to determine the best choices for each individual patient, or whether they have to do what "big brother" tells them to do, only.

Instead of institutionalizing medicine, how about doing something to knock off the horrendous, out of control litigation we are burdened with. Stop blaming doctors and medical professionals for what the pharmaceutical companies and lawyers have been bilking the government and populace for for decades.

Geez.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Jane Merrin-Feld, Tampa, Florida — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 04:51:53 GMT

James Hodges, I agree with you wholeheartedly!.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Steve — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 05:07:12 GMT

ben from San Diego, you are nothing but a Republican Malthusian who has no regard for the welfare of the people. In fact, you don't even deserve to live in America. Someone should throw you into Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea, which has one of the highest rates of disease in the world. Even walking through it without touching anything, you are likely to catch a disease. Yeah, we'll see who cares about you then, you psycho.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

William Rivera, Duncan Oklahoma — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 11:57:47 GMT

All of you Anti Free Health Care are idiots! So everyone should pay 200 bucks for a needle and 30 bucks for a roll of toilet paper? That is why your hospital bill is 45,000 after getting a hernia fixed. Crooked Insurance companies, and rich snobs like Ben who only care about themselves. Socialism is working for the benefit of everyone. But then again, we all know ben voted for Bush. Wake up America and quit driving your selfish SUV's and being stingy with your money when you have more then enough to pass it on. Bunch of selfish Republican Trash. Republicans like high oil prices and super high insurance premiums so that they and there families can line there pockets with money. After all, 97% of the richest Americans vote republican for there own selfish wealth. Way to go Selfish Tards. (Sarcastic)?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Julian, Torrance, CA — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 12:03:39 GMT

This is an ad hominem attack. Mau "if the person is from Miami, therefore they must be cuban". This argument is fallacious. There are millions of non-cubans living in Miami.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Jamie, Girard PA — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 12:26:21 GMT

American ignorance is bliss. It seems as though some Americans believe that the only history is their history or the only reality is American reality. This is what has become wrong with this country. This nationalism has destroyed our minds and credibility with the rest of the intelligent world.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

F.G.B. Defiance ohio — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 12:32:20 GMT

I can't for the life of me figure out why we don't normalize relations with Cuba.`I have read for years that they send their top notch doctors to South America to the benefit of the many. What a horrible idea. We on the other hand prefer to send soldiers and death to foreign countries. Any drug that helps terminally ill patients should be backed by our goverment. If it doesn't live up to it's hype what damage does it relly do. The older persons of cuban descent just foment hatred for the old regime. Liberation can only come through a relationship with a democratic nation. When people see the freedom we enjoy they generally will change their gov't. Think of how much better ewe would be viewed if 20 percent of our "war chest" was invested in helping other countries that are less fortunate than we.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Derrr — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 12:35:32 GMT

Wow...Cuba has come up with an unproven, non verified treatement for one type of cancer..maybe.

How many thousands of medical breakthroughs come out of the US every single year?

Quick! Someone implement Socialized Medicine!

Pfft...

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Andy, Cali — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 12:59:15 GMT

I do hope everyone understands that the cure for cancer is probably closer to a trillion dollar industry instead of 100's of billions. With all of our technology and chemicals and labs, do you honestly think that we DO HAVE A CURE for cancer? If a cure for most types of cancer was announced, what would happen to everyone in this industry. There is a cure hidden somewhere. Everyone needs to remember, the US is a capitalist country. We try to capitalize on anything we can. I am 100% American, but there is a written cure for cancer and HIV/AIDS that is under wraps! Just think, if your a company getting all these multi million dollar grants every year and have some of the best scientists in the world woking on it and have a cure for it, do you you think it would be in thier best interests to say, "Look, we have found the drug to cure most types of cancer!" Doubt that. Sorry to say this, but human life comes in second when it involves money. My sympathies go out with all who have cancer and have to suffer through your trying times! Only if the government knew the type of pain and suffering cancer patients go through. Cancer was not invented by man. How ignorant to say that. Poor educated person.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

daryl ready swan quarter n.c. — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:27:49 GMT

you can read anything in th newspapers. usually what the reporter wants you to read. if you want to know what is going on in the developing medicine world, read the research from the drug companies that are listed on the stock exchanges. the companies have drugs being tested that use your immune system to recognise and fight cancer. there are few side effects to this approach because they are just rearranging some of your own chemistry. cuba just reinvented the wheel. daryl

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Mark — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:28:54 GMT

Our Country is the one and only "Civilized Country " who does not have a system of socialized medicine for its citizens, for that matter there is no public education system past the High School. So, as we loose future potential new scientists and doctors due to the high cost of education we are also loosing people to diseases that are either curable or uncurable only to the lack of Health Insurance. As far as the half witted negative comments about other Countries.....! Well, there is no medicine for STUPIDITY and it's a shame, some people would sure need a good dose of it!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Chisim — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:30:11 GMT

Why is it that conservatives always say "Why should I have to pay for someone elses healthcare?" and liberals always say "why should I have to pay at all?" And despite the alluring arguments about egalitarianism, freedom of choice, social responsibility and individual responsibility, it all just masks two incredibly selfish philosophies that are in fact rigid, dogmatic characatures of the enlightenment values they once represented. All that's left, is "I don't want to pay for healthcare."

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Quantum Flux — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:35:35 GMT

The US is home to 300M people - Cuba? 11M

The US is a magnet for the poor from all corners of the globe - Cuba? Exports its poor and imports tourists

The US allows for total freedom and allows obvious enemies of the state to not only live within its borders, but FLOURISH and become internet heros - Cuba? I wonder how MAU OH PHI PA or NEFI ARCE INDIO would do as equally vocal OPPONENTS of Castro IN Cuba...

China and Cuba are the darlings of disillusioned westerners but everything they do OUTSIDE of social services is a copy of things from the US or EU. Yes Cuba has smart doctors... Who invented the equipment they use?

Cub and China have a system where the wealthiest (party members), part of the "in" club, are allowed to have STAGGERING wealth while the rest of the population surrenders 90% of their income in the form of either taxes or rock bottom wages. And in exchange they get free healthcare.

I guess if all you envision for yourself is a ROCK BOTTOM existance and your standard for success has become "AT LEAST I NEED TO GET TO THE DOCTOR EVERY WEEK!", then Cuba or China would be great for you.

Be careful what you wish for though. What the spoiled and overly entitled Americans who cheerlead Cuba or China REALLY want is a Utopia where they get ALL the benefits of the US... Keep their nice house and car... Keep their overpaid job... and ALSO get "free" healthcare and "free" govt womb.

Doesnt work that way kids. Get an education and learn something about the elasticity of resources and you'll understand that and not be so easily duped into following a dictator and cheering him ever louder so he will break you off a crust of bread. If you really believe you'd be better off, then prove it by selling ALL of your fancy luxuries (including your computer) and living in a lean-to on the side of the road for a week like 80+% of China and Cuba.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Jeff — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:37:51 GMT

Socialized health care is crap. First of all-who is going to pay for it? The only way that could happen is to raise taxes. I don't know about you but my taxes are way to high now. Secondly, I don't want to wait a month or two to go see a doctor like Canada. Lastly, there are a lot of employers that use medical to recruit and retain employees. A prime example are the part time workers UPS. There are an amazing amount of people who work there just for the medical. If medical was not there, people would either not work or work somewhere else-like a Starbucks or restaurant. Then UPS would have to find someone else to do a crappy job with crappy pay. Illegals anyne? Oh ya-then they would be on the socialized medical too.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

KLT, Miami, FL — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:46:20 GMT

Cuba has an excellent healthcare system! Ask Marta Beatriz Roque, Jose Luis Garcia Paneque, Oscar Elias Biscet, Normando Hernandez Gonzalez; they'll tell you how great it is! Google their names to find out how great they are doing in their jail cells!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

M. Ochoa — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:47:47 GMT

I will wait on the published results from clinical studies of the worldwide medical community.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

nfigueroa — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 13:49:17 GMT

all those bad comments came from miami,hopfully none of them will get any type of cancer,never,hate is worse than tumors!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Andrew, California — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:19:48 GMT

I'm a bit tired of seeing all these super 'patriotic' Americans spewing lines like "If you don't love America, leave it!" I'm an American, I enjoy living in this country but we as Americans have a right to knowledge and shouldn't turn a blind eye to advances being made in other countries. America is a place that has existed as it has simply because it allows people from other countries to gain citizenship in it. Stop all the USA pride crap and take a moment to realize that our country does indeed have problems, and those problems -must- be -fixed- and not swept under the carpet.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Sergio J Mendez — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:25:23 GMT

Stop the hate. We all have issues and beleive me Cuba has theirs. Lung cancer should'nt have smoked, no health care should have educated yourself and financially administrated yourself to provide for self like all quality americans have [(instead of purchasing cigarretes for the outrages cost)"financially administrated yourself"]. Look in the mirror before you bad mouth our country for your personal issues and poor judgement. This message is from a American Cuban born.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Rupert Ft Worth Texas — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:26:01 GMT

Same tired old line...... "We still live in the best country in the world" While I would certainly agree with that in past years, if you believe that now, you obviously don't travel much. America is in decline due to George Bush and his army of right-wing wingnuts, and help from do-nothing Democrats. Look around, read the news, watch the tube, get on the web, then tell me you are proud of what you see. We love America, have no doubt, but it is in trouble and we know it. What can we do? We need to figure it out....and fast.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

RAY, TAMPA, FL — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:32:14 GMT

THE PERSON WHO WROTE THIS ARTICLE OBVIOUSLY HAS NEVER LIVED, OR FOR THAT MATTER TRAVELED TO A COMMUNIST COUNTRY. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS FREE! THE FREE MEDICINE THEY TALK ABOUT IS PAID BY NOT HAVING FREEDOM, CHOICE, INDEPENDENCE, LIBERTY. THESE ARE THINGS THAT MANY OF US TAKE FOR GRANTED BECAUSE WE HAVE NEVER BEEN WITHOUT THEM. NOW, IS IT GOOD THAT THERE IS MEDICINE BEING DEVELOPED THAT COULD POTENTIALLY EXTEND A TERMINALLY ILL PATIENTS LIFE, YES. BUT THE QUESTION IS AT WHAT COST.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Jume, Tampa Florida — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:32:22 GMT

I am not cuban but i want to say : I am proud of Cuba and their fantastic breakthrough. Here in the US we have three major diseases that we need to find a cure for : Greeds, Fake pride and profit...

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

John King, Sundance, WY — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:37:02 GMT

Way to go MSN. No wonder you are dead last in ratings and credibility. Cuba is an economic basket case that does not pay its' bills. I'll bet that the only Cubans to received treatment for lung cancer with their new wonder drug are those with U.S. dollars to pay for it.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

bruce green, Chicago,Ill — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:44:47 GMT

Because of some Cubans in Floeeeda no American with Lung Cancer will ever benefit from this great accomplishment.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Biomedical Scientist, Houston TX — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:48:55 GMT

I think it's time to bring some reality to these postings. First I think MSNBC did a pretty poor job reporting on this topic. This article either suffers from total lack of medical and scientific research or someone trying to make a political point.

As a working biomedical scientist I was unable to find out any information on "ClimaVax"...I get a little skeptical when I can't find any peer-reviewed scientific literature on a supposed "break-through"new cancer drug.

I suspect this drug is an EGFRvIII type vaccine - which is being developed and tested all over the world. See American Society of Clinical Oncology http://www.asco.org/ASCO/Abstracts+%26+Virtual+Meeting/Abstracts?&vmview=abst_detail_view&confID=55&abstractID=35840

The only real point you could make from this story is that perhaps US - FDA standards for getting a new drug approved and into the clinic our too tough and it doesn't happen fast enough. But then if someone suffered ill effects of the drugs - we'd see the same people complaining that the gov't is not doing enough to protect us...

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Phil Lilburn, GA — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 15:52:25 GMT

I do not think living on this drug with chemotherapy and radiation for a year is a breakthrough. My wife died of breast cancer on June 25, 2007. You can not fix cancer by poisoning people with chemo and radiation. The only way to fix cancer is to prevent it. I don’t know about other cancers but I do know about breast cancer. Estrogen causes breast cancer, and once you get breast cancer estrogen fuels the cancer.
Asian women have 80% less breast cancer than American women. They get 40% of their protein from soy. Soy has a very weak form of estrogen in it. It is 1000th the strength of estrogen in a woman. By eating soy the woman’s body realizes that is has estrogen and quits producing the natural estrogen, which prevents breast cancer.
There are about 40,000 american women that will die of breast cancer per year, which breaks down to about 109 per day. There are 109 that will die today, 109 will die tomorrow and 109 will die the next day. There are 40,000 that will die this year, 40,000 that are waiting to die next year and 40,000 that are waiting to die 2 years from now. Each of these women are spending about $100,000.00 every 3 months for medical care (chemo and radiation and drugs that pump your blood levels back up so they can continue to give you more chemo).
What is terrible, is the American medical profession (from their testing) can not determine whether soy prevents breast cancer or accelerates breast cancer. I believe, there are about one billion people in china that have been eating soy since the beginning of time and they have 80% less breast cancer than us. If it caused breast cancer they would have an epidemic of breast cancer. We need to quit doing studies that try to determine whether soy is good or not and start trying to extract the estrogen compound out of soy and start making it a supplement that probably needs to be given starting when they are children. The Chinese eat soy all through life. What is sad is that the Chinese are now importing breast cancer. McDonald’s is growing very fast in china. Yum foods , which own Kentucky Fried Chicken, is growing very fast in china. As the Chinese move away from soy and start eating chicken and hamburgers their breast cancer rates will start to rise, which is starting to show up now.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

K.J. , Long Beach, CA — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:08:45 GMT

Cuba has a very educated population, with strengths particularly in science, medicine, and engineering. However, education and this 'wonder drug' does not translate into a good health system for its people. You can get good care if you are an outsider with money, but the common Cuban is not so fortunate. In this regard, their so-called socialized care is no better off for the average person, yet they all pay for it, by living until total control of the government. I've been to hospitals in Cuba as part of a humanitarian mission. We brought extensive supplies to hospitals and schools. The doctors we so excited just to have basic antibiotics and gauze...no joke. So before you believe the hype of a wonder drug, realize that this is a result of a regime that is seeking to profit off of the poor by funding its research with their wages in the guise of socialized healthcare, meanwhile doing so only to market drugs to outsiders who have money. People are fond of blaming pharmaceutical companies, well the Cuban government should be on the top of the list for the exploitation of its people and dollar hungry approach to 'wonder drug' research.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

bill paser Clearwater fl — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:10:26 GMT

Yes Yes to Cuba Scientist. Relief is in sight Nov 08 Embargo will be history.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

M. Moore, Milford, CT — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:11:40 GMT

This lunacy must be stopped! Progress like this could save lives! Think of the potential losses that our wonderful "health care system" might suffer if we weren't treating the symptoms!

If you ever had to watch one of your loved ones suffer through mediocre "cancer treatments" you would be more accepting of news like this.

Kudos to the scientists and to the government for supporting their endeavours.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Tibor,Ohio — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:17:12 GMT

We should recignize the fact that the results of scientific research is proportional to the type of motivation.Using money alone will yield average results while commitment, ethusiasm and dedicatin will payoff much greater benefits

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

ernesto r. (cuban descent) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:25:54 GMT

Attention Americans:

You may not be aware of the actual reality regarding our policy towards Cuba: destabilization. Our policy has been highjacked (forty years plus) by the fanatical, narrow-minded Cuban exiles, who vote with their hearts, not their minds. Proud to be American spewed things like "...if you want free medicine, move to the island" and "we live in the best country"; obviously repeating what his/her parents said. I know. I am of Cuban descent...but from the "other side". I was exposed to Granma, literature in Spanish and history books on Latin America (and the rest of the world) and learned the true "essence" of American policy. We come from an imperalist mentality that values resources and interests, over fairness. Observation: if you read all the comments above, notice that the folks from Miami, FL (hell on earth) blurt out the same things: brutal communist regime, ordinary Cubans can't use hospital, blah, blah, blah. Are you kidding me?! I go the doctor here and it costs me $220, just for the visit; I make on the average $700. That's 31.4% of my weekly salary. Oh, yeah, I don't qualify for Medicaid and I can't afford the $498 monthly premium for insurance. Why? My mortgage, food and utilities are a priority. And two kids. Great country, huh? The land is beautiful but the system is rotten. One.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

OA, Miami — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:29:24 GMT

It's incredible to me how an article based on medicine gets turned into a political issue. I was born in Cuba and raised in the US since the age of two.
The Cuban medical system is in disarray- as I was able to witness in my one and only visit back to the island a few years ago - but that is still no reason to discount a glimmer of hope given to many people suffering from a horrible disease.
We need to drop the politics when it comes to medical care because very few of us would reject a life saving treatment administered by someone with a different political point of view.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

mamonks palm beach fl — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:33:45 GMT

ben in diego, we pay huge taxes and we get nothing. People need to see a doctor from the begining of life. This teaches them how to take care of themselves and most important the why! Miami, you are responsible for the conditions in Cuba. Your ilk has done this to promote yourself for to the GOP handlers . This has cost the US taxpayer 2 trillion over the last 50 years. get a job puto.;..

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Milton — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:37:15 GMT

There is no such thing as a free lunch; or free health care.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Laurie, New Jersey — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 15:58:54 GMT

To help battle cancer, why can't we break down the barriers and stop the name calling and stereotypes? Who cares if Cuba is socialist, fascist or communist? And why does it take so long for trials here in the US (besides the fact that we're a litigous society wanting to sue anybody we can).

In addition, why can't we be involved in a trial if we choose to? If a person wants to be included in a trial and they agree that their results should not be tracked (because they are not part of the preferred target group) but fall into the experimental category, wouldn't you agree that shutting a person out of a trial is undemocratic?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Sultan Azteca, Monterrey, Mexico — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 16:11:58 GMT

Actually everybody inthe world (but the culturally isolated US), knows that public health care in Cuba is one of the best in the world (developed or not). It is just ridiculous to see the Gringo attitude of "nothing good can come out of nowhere, but from the US, of course (also erroneously called "America")". A Cuban individual might not be able to afford a used Hyundai Accent, or a basic Dell PC, heck! not even an Old Navy t-shirt from the bargain bin, but they unquestionably DO have universal top-notch health care, demonstrated 100% literacy and high-quality scientists and professionals in multiple fields, and a functional, well-cared, although aging, infrastructure. Castro did little to keep his name up in matters of civil rights, but he left a top figther in the global economy world. If the US and Europe fear "unfair" competition from cheap and highly skilled labor from China and India, you have seen nothing yet until Cuba comes into the mainstream world economy.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

juan vega 1600 McCombs rd bronx n.y. — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 16:16:45 GMT

lets just wish everyone the best and in time all good things come to us ,Americans have their reason for what they do repect that and hope for the best .

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

optimusz grime, budapest, hungary — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 16:32:23 GMT

would you really want to live for 18.5 months in end stage lung cancer? think about this. this is not a drug to help people out at all, this is a drug to help out hospitals and to rip you off wiht more money. you do not get better, you stay sick longer. wow. what a reakthrough.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

micha — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 16:34:12 GMT

I have been a Castro fan all my life and continue to hope for the best. America has a blind-side that is corrupt and run by criminals. The FED and others run America and we have stopped being a free country long ago... now 5% of us are in the military and the rest don't even follow the news about Iraq and this war. It's nuts this Nation Of Sheep 'JFK'tried to warn us and was killed for it. Please wake up and gain your strength America.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Peggy — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 16:51:27 GMT

Wow. In reading these posts I find myself wondering: does the administration have someone reading articles and making posts to support its position. Fact: I have family in Canada, and while they MIGHT come to the U.S. for cosmetic surgeries (the dollar is so weak it's cheaper to come here) they are quite happy with the medical system in their country. They are QUITE aware that they will receive equal treatment for their disease as do the very rich; something that can't happen here. FACT: George W. Bush was attempting to set up his brother to succeed him in the White House when he came up with the tough anti-Cuba policies that are in place. He knew those policies would placate the rapidly dying expatriates who went to Miami from Cuba when Castro came to power. FACT: Your tax dollars pay for at least 50% of the education of every physician in the U.S. Is it unreasonable to expect a return on that investment?

Kudos to Cuba for finding a market niche (which is hysterically funny in a way), knowing that U.S. drug manufacturers are all about maximizing profits, and selling product and not developing new ones, they focused their efforts on our weakness.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

FONSECA — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 17:13:00 GMT

ONLY IN A FREE COUNTRY, LIKE USA, IS POSIBLE TO READ MESSAGES AND COMMENTS LIKE THIS ONES, WITH MULTIPLES OPINIONS,EVEN ?DEFENDING? THE CUBAN REGIMEN...;I WOULD LIKE TO BELIEVE IN THIS KIND OF "PROPAGANDA", BUT I AM A CUBAN, RECENTLY EMIGRATED, AND I KNOW "A LITTLE" ABOUT THE CUBAN SITUATION, AND HOW THE GOVERMENT SPENT MONEY AND FORCES, TO MAKE "THEIR THRUE" CREDIBLE OUTSIDE...I'TS SO SAD TO CUBANS(AND PEOPLES)WHO LOVE THE FREEDOM...

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

GOD HEAVEN AT THE TOP — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 17:19:59 GMT

IN RESPONSE TO THE IDIOTS WHOM CAN NOT SEE THROUGH THE STRIVES THEIR HOMELAND HAS MADE JUST BECAUSE THAT THEY WILLINGLY LEFT TO BE A AMERICAN ( HUMAN NATURE NEVER ADMIT YOU MADE A MISTAKE) WHEN TIMES WERE TOUGH. IN AMERICA WE DONT TOLERATE COWARDS YOU ARE THE PEOPLE WHOM NEED TO GO BACK TO THE ISLAND AND SEE HOW MUCH CHANGE 40 YRS HAS MADE LOOK AROUND EVEN AMERICA HAS CHANGED ALSO TO THE MOST UNDESIREABLE FORM OF GOVERMENT THE PEOPLE WE WONT EDUCATE WELL ENOUGH TO SEE THAT, WHY WOULD WE DO SOMETHING LIKE THAT STUPID, EDUCATE OUR PEOPLE THEY WILL SEE RIGHT THROUGH OUR FAKE GREAT AMERICAN DREAM WHICH HAS NOW BECOME HITTING THE LOTTO AS YOU ALL KNOW, VIVA CUBA,
CASTRO RUBBED AND SNUBBED AMERICAN GOVERMENT AGAIN

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Eres Unica — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 17:26:22 GMT

Cuba is a fraud... Just ask the Cubans in the island!

Twenty percent (yes, 20%... the highest in the world) of Cubans live outside MSNBC "paradise" and only 5% have ever returned for a short visit... and they come back from the island DEPRESSED!!!

Does anybody know where Cuba's pharmacies are?

They are all in Miami!!!

I wonder why MSNBC does not report this... There's plenty of juice here...

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

William A. Avellan — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 17:44:10 GMT

Look, don't be afraid of "Socialized Medicine". Fear mongers want you to believe that it does not work. Watch Sicko and judge for yourself. Get rid of the HMO's, pharmaceutical companies, and everyone in between, and you and your family will have the best care you can get.

We pay for health insurance, yet we still have to pay premiums AND drug costs and it does not cover anything? Plus pre-existing conditions and limits? WTF is the health insurance company to tell my doctor how to treat me?

Drug companies in the US are not looking for cures, they are looking for medicines to keep you hooked. When was the last time someone cured a disease? Millions are spent on "Search for cure" yet no cures in sight? Come on people. Wake up!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

John, WI — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 17:46:54 GMT

The development of this particular lung cancer vaccine is a huge advance. We need to expand studies and testing in the U.S. It's important to note that although this is a huge advance for Cuba, American scientists currently have other vaccines that use the same principle (targeting EGF receptor) in development. In terminal brain cancers, (glioblastoma multiforme), U.S. researchers have double life expectancy from 14 or fewer months to 28 or more. While this is still in development, we are also making progress. While the U.S. could and should spend more on research, we have tens of thousands of scientists working on this, and spend billions. More is always better, but it is important to note for those who think the U.S. is doing nothing.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Robin Eye — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 17:49:57 GMT

Americans (and anyone else) can go to medical school for free in Cuba with room and board included. Cuba lacks state of the art diagnostic machinery so doc there have to rely more on old-fashioned differential diagnosis methods. Yes, you have to go through Mexico to get there and of course, read and speak Spanish. But hey, what a spectacular opportunity. Socialized medicine? My son lives in Canada and its a mess. They push drugs rather than treat - for example, his chronic sinusitis here in the U.S. would necessitate repeated and follow-up CT scans or X-rays of his sinus cavity to make sure the infection was completely gone but in Canada? No. Just drugs and the wait for appointments is months. That's why they have so many walk-in clinics. Mental health is ridiculous - no way to get a reasonably fast appointment and you cannot see your therapist more than once a week even if you are catatonic. This vaccine is probably the heat shock protein variety like HSP90, HSP27, HSP65, Gp86 etc. (see July 2008 Scientific American). This is available here too, just formalized in clinical trials and limited to several specific cancers and/or herpes. Shows promise for Type 1 diabetes. But still needs some fine tuning. So Cuba beats others to the plate but then they don't have to worry about any deaths resulting from the treatment, now do they?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Jerry, Los Angeles, CA — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:04:05 GMT

I could care less what comes out of Cuba as long as the price paid is the FREEDOM of its citizens.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Joe Forde — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:10:55 GMT

From reading the blogs, it is difficult to know whether this type of cutting edge healthcare is actually given to the average Cuban citizen or is reserved in special hospitals for medical tourists. I would like to hear more from people who have gone to Cuba, lived there, and experienced the actual delivery of health care.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Momsdaughter, Tell City, IN — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:20:36 GMT

To hell with all the political talk, the FDA, and the drug companies. I could care less who has developed this drug. I am just happy someone somewhere has been working and developing it. Twenty two years ago my Mother died of lung cancer and I would have taken her anywhere and paid anything (no matter what I would have had to do to get the money) for her to have had a chance of living longer. I'm sure many others feel the same.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Celesta McCartney, Bessemer, PA — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:20:49 GMT

We neeed to ask ourselves one question. If the healthcare and socialism are so WONDERFUL in Cuba, why are so many risking their lives to get to the USA?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

V F Tulsa, OK — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:28:06 GMT

If you think it is so great there, go live there. There are benefits in any country you choose, but this country is great and offers the most benefits. If everybody was equal, a doctor, lawyer, scientist, teacher etc then there would be no incentive to try harder or to take the harder job. If everything was given away no one would need to work for it...Where would we be in another 50 years. If Cuba is so great, why do they still drive around 50 year old cars, if they can even afford to drive? Have you seen there public transportation, let alone housing, available foods, even the sand off the beaches has been sold to the highest bidder. Ok so it is our fault in the US for having embargoes against them, NO WAY if Cube was that great and the US was in the wrong, other countries would have stepped forward. Not even China did until now when the oil off the Cuban coast is more valuable. THINK ABOUT IT Proud Cuban born in Miami, FL living in Tulsa, OK

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

craig, schenectady, New York — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:28:20 GMT

"Ask Canadians why they come here for medical treatment?...it's called Socialism. "

are you kidding? where did you get this information? do you even KNOW anyone who lives in canada? they would not trade their medical coverage for american-style healthcare for any reason. people suffer with and die from treatable illnesses in America every year due to lack of access to healthcare. sure, a hospital will front your bills if you can't pay, but what about preventative care? what if you need an MRI to see if you've got a brain tumor? or a chest x-ray to see if you've got a heart condition? a person without health insurance will get care if they break a leg, but preventative care to catch deadly illnesses like cancer before they can spread and become untreatable? not a chance. how about something as innocuous as needing glasses? joe american working 40 hours a week at a minimum wage job can't afford benefits...he can barely afford to support himself. and yet we expect the working poor to pay for healthcare coverage out of pocket? anyone who takes that attitude has never been in a subsistence living situation and doesn't know what they're talking about. i would gladly pay a few extra dollars out of my check every week if i knew that our access to healthcare was absolute. the rest of the civilized world has socialized healthcare, and nobody is being taxed to expropriation over in europe, or in canada. the majority of americans pay lower taxes than any other country in the world, and yet we still complain? i like people who complain they are taxed too much and then take the boat out for a spin on saturdays. i am in no way saying they don't deserve their prosperity; but i -am- saying that their ability to enjoy that prosperity in spite of their taxes proves that our tax system is not nearly as burdensome as people like to assert it is. american tax payers need to wake up and stop thinking that they are being taxed to oblivion, because frankly, they aren't.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

BILL, BKLYN, N.Y. — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:39:48 GMT

YEAH, ALMOST YAY. BUT LEAVE IT TO SOME OTHER COUNTRY TO DIG IN TO FIGHT FOR A CURE, WELL ALMOST. BETWEEN THE FEDS AND THE DRUG MAKERS HOLDING BACK ON RELEASING CURES FOR THE BIG BUCKS IT GENERATES AND NOBODY DYING. THE U.S. WILL CLAIM IT DOESN'T WORK BECAUSE OF CUBA AND THEY MIGHT NOT MAKE A BILLION BUCKS BY RIPPING PEOPLE OFF.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

marty, wenatchee, wash — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:53:09 GMT

stop crying just because cuba developed a great drug and we didnt. good job cuba! we give plenty of monety towards cancer but it just gets pissed away. i have always known other countries can stretch their money better than us.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Jerry Hoehn, Memphis, TN — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 19:23:44 GMT

I am I the only one to notice the irony of a communist government applying for a patent? Aren't patents intended to help guarantee profitability from an idea by preventing other individuals and organizations from using it to their own benefit? Isn't communism based on the principle "From each according to their ability, to each according to their need"? This being the founding principle of communism, why would a communist use capitalist tools such as patents? What's next, filing legal documents to start a corporation in the United States? Karl Marx would be very disappointed in all of this.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

tod — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 19:30:56 GMT

How can so many people be so blind. Our top drug companies pay big bucks to keep any new cancer drugs that would help off the market so they can continue getting rich!!!!!!!!!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Buffantoo — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 19:32:52 GMT

It is not a matter of politics, but health.
Open the gates to US citizens for a better and moderated price health care, if it is not available within.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Lynn — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:03:27 GMT

God help us, another country other than the U.S. has something that maybe helpful and affordable. What's to become of us now! Canadian and very proud of it. Get over yourself.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Nick Oliva, Brooklyn, NY — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:10:20 GMT

Where is the third-party verification of this? Where are the links to the scientific journal articles? Combine that they "would not identify any side effects of CimaVax EFG", with the fact that there is no watchdog function in Cuba, and that Cubans have no recourse to litigation... and you'd think twice before taking this over waiting for an FDA approved drug.

Don't forget that Cuba earns a great deal of hard currency on tourists trying to save money on expensive treatments - they NEED these things to stay afloat.

This article should have earned MSNBC some advertising dollars. It reads as though a PR agency passed along all the quotes to a reporter that just added filler.

1. Where did they "patent" this? Cuba? It's not like anyone would challenge a state patent application in Cuba....

2. In my own experience having Multiple Sclerosis, I've learned that it's impossible to say whether a particular person benefitted from a drug - it's only known in trials of large numbers of people if there's a statistical benefit aside from placebo-effect, etc. Saying that "in some cases" people's lives have been extended is anecdotal - not scientific at all.

3. They're measuring success by how long people lived after taking the vaccine. I suppose if the vaccine were killing people this would be a good measure. If it's actually helpful, then this mostly depends on how far along people are in their "end stage" when the trials began.

4. Here's a real story, Mary. Go into a small town hospital in Cuba, like the one in Jaguey Grande, Matanzas where my cousin is a nurse. Ask them to show you the medical supplies that are available to "the people". Ask them when the last time was that they had gas for the ambulance. Ask them why my elderly aunt can barely move her arm since the iron-age screw they inserted into her elbow became infected and had to be removed.

Write that story, Mary.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Eric, Wayne MI — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:11:27 GMT

Thanks to Castro's socialistic efforts, Cuba's literacy rate was raised from 77% to 96% within one year.

Mississippi, the GOP's model state (which they'd like cloned 49 times), has a literacy rate of 66%. The real beauty of free market triumphs like Mississippi is that the less educated people are, the more gullible (and likely to vote Republican) they are.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Carmen Zita — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:15:21 GMT

I AM CUBAN BORN, I HAVE BEEN IN THE USA SINCE 1961! I REFUSE TO THINK THESE NUTS HAVE ANYTHING TO OFFER THE WORLD. I WORK AT JACKSON HEALTH SYSTEMS IN MIAMI, TOP NOTCH HEALTHCARE, AND I STILL GET CALLS FROM FRIENDS THAT HAVE RELAIVES IN CUBA, BEGGING FOR SIMPLE EXPIRED SUTURES TO TAKE BACK TO THIS MESS OF A COMMIE ISLAND. THERE IS NOTHING THERE! NO ALCOHOL, NO NEEDLES NOTHING FOLKS! TRUST ME ANGLOS THERE IS NOTHING CUBA HAS TO OFFER BUT PROPAGANDA!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

homer greer — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:32:49 GMT

i think our biggest problem here in the u.s. is money. its not about who can and cant afford health care it is our own govt keeping the pharmacutials companys happy. big businesses run this country and all they worry about is profit. if there was a cure for something the drug companies would not allow it because they would loose money.money talks and big business run our govt.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Louise, Portland Oregon — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:32:56 GMT

Rah Rah, America...What a croc...Wake up. The world is out there and full of good and bad. How wonderful to hear of a breakthrough in the fight to survive cancer. Just because Cuba has a different kind of government doesn't make it bad. How about free choice allowing differences in th whole world. What gives the USA #1 status? Certainly not the mortality rate, poverty level, the deteriorating intrastructure, low education standards and having our labor force upheld by workers from other countries and us treating them like criminals because they do our work for us. Rah rah rah you poor blind mice.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Tim L. Raymond Lake, Michigan — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:40:30 GMT

When I was a little girl, my grandmother died of cancer. My family has had almost all kinds of cancer.
I remember thinking as a child, that by the time I had to worry about cancer, that there would be a cure.
How stupid of me, here I am 78 years old and they have "nothing". Good for Cuba. We spend our money for war's & salaries for over paid polititions. Why isn't the drug company's doing more? I don't think they want a cure. Man if there was, look at all the money they would loose.
Discusted gramma

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Annie, Alexandria, VA — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:56:36 GMT

To Ben from San Diego--he may be right about socialized education. Check out his spelling of "price" tag. Otherwise, I think it is fantastic that hope for one of the cancers is on the burner. Thanks to Cuban doctors or any doctors. Now if the FDA will look at it sooner than in two years.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Proud Cuban American, MIAMI, FL — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 21:08:18 GMT

why do people hate on the cubans. Good job MSNBC for reporting the good side of Cuba as well! There are other smart people in the world from all walks of life.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

David, Kyiv, Kyiv — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 21:12:46 GMT

Wait a minute... all those complaining about the lack of facilities in Cuba should know this is because of US sanction on "Communist" Cuba while doing business with communist China regime. 95% of the products use in US households are made in communist China!

Just a side note, shame on all those “American Cuban” that leave in richest in the US and keep lobbying for the extension of sanction against Cuba …can’t believe how stupid people could be. Shame on you!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Gary — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:07:43 GMT

"In America we have many drugs in development for lung cancer. They are not being marketed yet because of the strict safety and efficacy regulations of the FDA." Nice one Mike......I'm sure the pharmaceutical companies really have our best interest in mind when manufacturing these deadly drugs. Every other week there is a recall for more deaths due to these medicines. shame on you.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

mohammed nj — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:08:06 GMT

well well well, i see even a lot of ignorant people read too! i am a fourth gen american, and to ignore when something good in the world happens is just ridiculous. this is not even about america, this is about people helping people. what the gov in cuba is doing 2 the people are there own fault. if they had some faith they would wake up, even the smartest person in a country there will always be some1 in another country smarter, it is priceless what we learn esp. from around the world. think about it!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

JB, Mattoon, Il — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:31:01 GMT

Wht is everyone missing the point here? There's no use in arguing about US vs. cuba or complaining about socialism. The real problem with this story is that it's glorifying yet another false advance in medical science. All of our energy is put towards treating the symptoms and not the disease. A terminally ill patient lives for an extra 11 months? I'll get excited when someone comes up with something that takes care of the cancer itself. However, that will never happen since there's no profit in one time treatments and actually saving people's lives. Keeping someone alive is not the same as letting them get back to living their life.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

rec — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:32:21 GMT

Most people who've left their State know Cuban's have a world class Health Care system. You don't have to be a pinko or anti-American to admit that!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Andrew Weidner, Hancock, NY — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:34:12 GMT

Having traveled to Cuba twice I have seen firsthand how their cutting-edge scientific research has made great strides in combatting many diseases. I believe that it is time for joint efforts to be explored and barriers, especially between the U.S. and Cuba, be "torn down" as the saying goes. I believe the entire world benefit.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

mercy/Miami — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:36:52 GMT

Yes there is plenty of talent in Cuba, but the disgrace of Dr's not being able to practice beacuse they do not have the means. Let's get real they are not living Cuba, to come here and flip burgers because they want to.....When you have to send supplies to your relatives that is not healthcare.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

lazaro rochester, ny — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:53:28 GMT

i agree with you ,that the person from miami , dont like know good thing about cuba , here you have insurance and they dont want pay for you medicine at least cuba have free medical service , here the goverment only think about money for war and other things ,they develope good medicine only for the rich people. god bless cuba.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Paul, Charlotte, NC — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:57:42 GMT

This is not about politics. Cuba is one creature and the U.S is another. The issue at hand revolves around research coming from everywhere, moving forward regardless of race, country or religion in an effort to solve one of mankind’s chronic plagues; disease. Besides, a true American is everyone who lives in the Americas. We fly American planes built by the French drive American cars with parts from places most can't even pronounce and drink American bottled water from manufactures in the pacific islands. We ourselves are children of an empire who once colonized a land with the hopes of producing a cheaper product, born of necessity not political aspiration. We should support the good of humanity and that positive outcome.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Casan, Toronto — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:28:36 GMT

If Cuba was under U.S. economic control, then these people will have been serving cocktails to rich fat americans rather than developing amazing research that benefits the world.

Viva Castro!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

john doe — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:30:17 GMT

Funny you guys (figure of speech) all believe the propaganda you read with respect to social medicine. I lived in Greece for a few years as a US gov employee and recieved prompt and inexpensive medical treatment and medications through there system. Top notch! I had no insurance and paid nothing to the state yet when I needed an MRI I got it that day for 50E when my kid needed Zyrtec for allergies a month supply cost me 1E... Thats right.. its about equivalent to the price of a daily dose here.. hospitalization.. 24E for a night.. on and on... Our system is a joke! Granted they pay slightly more taxes at a rate the is across the board for all but at least they have equal rights. We are very far from that.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Otto, Tucson., Arizona — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:32:11 GMT

I am amazed that a lot of Americans do not think about how out government will let people die from terminal deseases and not let us use what we want because the new drugs may harm us. MAKES NO SENSE TO ME

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Daniel,Dubuque,Iowa — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:41:19 GMT

This sounds like a great drug.Its too bad here in the United States it takes forever to get approved drugs to patients. Maybe our government is afraid people would live to long with a cure for cancer and thus deplete social security sooner. Well,whatever the situation truly is,if you were a high ranking government official I am sure you would get better treatment here in the U.S. than the average Joe.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Diana Smick, Richmond — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:45:41 GMT

It is great that Cuba is sharing their information
regarding their medical discoveries....bring them on.

Regarding health care for everyone in the U.S - bad
idea. I had a conversation with a couple from Canada
while visiting Florida and the wife had to have
a serious operation and was going to be on a list
for 18 months in Canada (socialized medicine there);
they had no choice but to cross the border to the
US and get the surgery in order for her to survive.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Angel, Keyport, NJ — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:47:04 GMT

Kudos to Cuban researchers. This is an example of how the once mighty US is slowly and gradually lagging behind in almost every measure of greatness. We could be delivering these results and more if priorities were properly set, and a collective cooperative mindset of "can do" spirit were revived. It's our government's responsibility the we are in a position to compete and succeed. Why else pay taxes? Salaries and facilities?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

joe blow — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 23:52:16 GMT

WELL SAID JUAN CANDAL - THE NEO CONS IN THE USA DOES HAVE DOUBLE STANDARDS REGARDING CUBA- THEY SEE ITS FINE TO DEAL WITH CHINA AND SAUDI ARABIA - AND NOW NORTH KOREA- THIS NEWS FROM CUBA IS A GOOD SIGN INDEED. OF COURSE THEIR SYSTEM NEEDS A DEMOCRATIC OVERHAUL BUT WHY ARE NEO CONS OK WITH THEIR POLICY OF SPENDING BILLIONS OF DOLLARS A MONTH IN IRAQ WHEN THE POOR IN THE USA'S RURAL AND URBAN AREAS COULD USE THE MONEY -HELL, THE RESEARCHERS FOR CURES IN THE USA COULD USE SOME OF THAT MONEY TOO.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Ron Carmichael, San Jose, CA. — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:40:44 GMT

Good for Cuba and those who are providing another weapon in the battle against cancer. Who cares if its system of government is not like our own? We spend billions on weapons that kill innocent people while a so called "evil" country has a health care system better than our own. "Socialized medicine" is liked by those who have it. Of course those who can afford it may come to the U.S. to our BEST institutions (which most of us can not access). Consider that even in a country like France - where citizens regularly protest/riot against government policies they do not like - there has never been a protest to get rid of so called "socialized medicine". Our longevity and infant mortality is worse than those countries with a single payer type of system. We need this same system in the U.S. instead of the bankrupt system of health care we have now.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Ron, Seattle,WA — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:53:07 GMT

Yeah,...Let that God forsaken country heal themselves, I don't trust them! I agree with the guy "Proud to be an American",...He tells it the way it is!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

ALBERTO GONZALEZ — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:03:07 GMT

my mother just passed away in Cuba last Saturday, she did not have this kind of cancer but leucemia, however, she can not stay in the hospital because restrooms were flooding with urine. The Cuban medical system is a disaster. I had to send medicines to my mother. This drug will be used for tourist not for the Cubans citizens.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Fred MxcMurrian North port, Fl. — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:17:15 GMT

we have relationships with China and their goverment. We should think about opening relations with Cuba. It is made of people with the same hopes we have.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

ROBERTO J. SHELTON PHOENIX, ARIZONA — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:17:44 GMT

IT'S GREAT THAT A CUBAN SCIENTIST TEAM FOUND THIS VACCINE BUT WITH $350 MILLION DOLLAR PROFIT YOU WOULD THINK THAT ALL THE CUBAN PEOPLE SHOULD DESERVE BETTER HOSPITALS, MEDICINES, AND EQUIPMENTS FOR THEIR OWN HEALTH ISSUES. NOT EVEN RUNNING WATER IS PROVIDED IN THE HOSPITAL. IT'S IRONIC THAT I HAVE TO SEND ASPIRIN'S AND VITAMINS BACK HOME TO MY FAMILY BECAUSE THEY DON'T KEEP THE PHARMACIES STOCKED WITH ENOUGH MEDICINES FOR DAILY USE. THIS BREAKTHROUGH IS PROOF THAT THE EMBARGO HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE SHORTAGE OF MEDICINES IN CUBA.(THIS IS WHAT THE CUBANS ARE TOLD) THEY EXPORT 180 DIFFERENT MEDICINES AROUND THE WORLD AND THE CUBAN PEOPLE DON'T EVEN GET TO SEE ANY IMPROVMENT IN THEIR LIFES. THE PROBLEM IS NOT THE EMBARGO IT'S THE CASTRO'S.

FORMER CUBAN RESIDENT NOW LIVING IN THE LAND OF THE FREE.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

reinadelaz — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:20:20 GMT

Congratulations to the esteemed physicians of Cuba. How rich their lives must be knowing that their professional dedication has produced such an important milestone for mankind. The state of American healthcare is capitalism's greatest disgrace.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Bobby — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:55:01 GMT

I agree i think a breakthrough is a breakthrough no matter where its from.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Anthony Lundberg — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:56:49 GMT

I am glad that the Cuban nation has such advance medical system and I wish that some how they or somebody will produce a vicine against racism and prejudice so taht we will have a better life in the grate USA

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Miguel Cedron-Ron, Miami, FL — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 02:13:44 GMT

This would be all good if this and other medications were in fact available for Cubans in the island... Free healthcare but there are no medications available. As someone stated, they get proper diagnostics but no medication available to them unless relatives here in the US send it to them.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Walter Lippmann, Los Angeles, California — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 02:20:22 GMT

My mother died of lung cancer. I sure wish that she'd had access to a treatment like this when she was ill. She might have lived longer if there were a treatment like this when she was ill. Wouldn't it be great if others who get sick now could avail themselves of such treatment if they wanted to? Really, it's time and overtime to get over the disagreements and normalize relations with Cuba.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

AJ — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 02:49:07 GMT

for Ben in San Diego: we have public schools because it is in the best interest of business to have a ready population of workers educated to at least a minimum standard. Work that needs little education is increasingly farmed out to overseas locations. It is also in the interest of business to have a healthy populace. Figures are updated every year showing how much businesses lost to illness by absentee workers.
You are already paying for free health care for the poor, as they go sit in hospital ERs, who by law cannot turn them away. Only they are seen when their serious illnesses are far more advanced and more expensive to treat. They are also using expensive ER care for their kids earaches. Either way, you are paying more than you would if they had timely access to care away from the ER.
The only solution for ignorance and bigotry is education.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Stevie B, Colorado — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 02:53:48 GMT

Socialized medicine does have issues -- much rationing occurs;
i've seen the british version
a. Rationing by waiting list. in us, if covered, your hernia may be operated in days -- in uk;
6 months for confirmatory appointment with surgeon
6 months to schedule the surgery
and when scheduled you are likey to be bumped another few months if the operating room is busy.
b. Rationing by restricted procedure
i've seen surgeon and radiologist arguing over whether to run a CT -- in USA Ct would have been done immediately and we'd likely get an MRI in that particular case
Some districts prohibit such things as tonsilectomies....

---
One of 1428 US citizens with ECFMG certificate that cant get a US residency - because we gave 3500 jobs to aliens on J-1 visas.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Matthew, PA — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 03:06:02 GMT

USA Citizen, Miami FL: Good to see your patroitism, but saying the USA is the best country in the world? Maybe WAS is more correct. Look out our laws, we are no less than a police state! All done for the "GOOD" of the people. Every aspect of our lives are regulated, gosh you cant even swim at a beach in Fl without being controlled. Cant have a barbeque and drink a beer, because it is in "public" and might be "bad" for someone.The dark ages of communist control has reached us at home, cloaked in the banners of freedom. As long as we "feel" free we are happy. Broaden your horizons and travel a bit, then you will see what is freedom. To top it all, we embarked on the worst sins of all, invading another country on falsified evidence, and causing the deaths of millions of innocent people. Whilst we let our real enemy escape and regroup. What fools are we! Dont snipe at Cuba, we should rather clean our own backyards before we profess to others we "are the best". Shame on us.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

John Keim Austin, Tx — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 03:13:26 GMT

Well I hate to inform the fella from Miami, that there really isn't much difference in a Communist Dictatorship from a Fascist Dictatorship, such as we have in this country.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Peter, Huntsville TX — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 03:15:06 GMT

Responding to Red Blooded American, you say if someone wants socialized medicine to go to Cuba and stay there? Let me guess, you must be responding to Mr. Hodges, who has lung cancer and no insurance. Red Blooded, do you suppose that if YOU had lung cancer and no insurance, that YOU might hope and pray for a little socialized medicine? I'll bet you would. Feel a little compassion for those not as well indulged as yourself.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

James Mattingly Carlyle,Il — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 03:17:59 GMT

As a lung cancer patient,this is great news.Hope i can live long enough to see it to treat other patients

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Perry, Atlanta — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 03:19:08 GMT

I find it odd that so many Cubans in Miami cannot have some sense of pride in this fact. I understand the horrible events that took place there in the 70s. However, if this news came from Germany everyone would be shout how smart the German people are. Yet, the Cubans have done something wonderful and all I hear in Miami is anger. I'm not Cuban, or communist, but I feel proud that a Spanish speaking nation is in the news for something wonderful.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

PJD, Pembroke Pines, FL — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 03:19:49 GMT

Dear Cuban exiles residing in the USA, Jorge Mas Canosa is DEAD and so is your hope of ever regaining control of the homeland YOU abandoned.

Being a lifetime South Floridian, I know several former cuban exiles that repatriated back to Cuba for the health benefits they could not find here in the U.S.. Most of the jabber about people who can't get treatment is from people or their decendants that haven't been back to Cuba since leaving but get fed only what their relatives relate to them about conditions in Cuba. Don't get me wrong. The Cuban governmental structure as it stands and has stood since Fidel Castro took over, stinks, big time. However, when it comes to medical advances and the leading edge breakthroughs that has come from this small hated island nation, few can match the tenacity, innovative innitiatives and generousity of the Cuban medical community. If I were stuck in a poor country such as Cuba and I had relatives in back the states and I wanted to pluck their heart and purse strings I'd tell them how hard to was to get medicines and care. If you really want to see how terrible the hospitals in Cuba and Canada are as an uninformed USA citizen may lead you to believe, go out and rent Sicko, the documentary on healthcare in the U.S. compared to other countries (Cuba and Canada included). If you want to see how badly the Cuban, Canadian and U.S. people really have it as far as life expectancy goes, Canada 11th, U.S.A. 42nd, Cuba 50th., not so far off and you you would thing listening to the U.S. Citizens or the world.

See for yourself!
http://www.os-connect.com/pop/p1.asp?whichpage=3&pagesize=20&sort=lepop

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Karen Private, Jackson,MI — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 03:56:57 GMT

I think it is time to allow US citizens to travel to Cuba. We travel to Vietnam. One day a country is unfriendly the next day they are your friends. Witness Germany and Japan and Iran. What's everyone fighting for? The US is supposed to be a free country. Yet, we don't have the right to go to an island 80 miles south of our southern border. I don't call that freedom. All I want to do is go the beaches there and come home in a couple of days.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

ALEX — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 04:10:36 GMT

EVERYONE SHOULD GO TO "PROYECT CAMELOT" THERE YOU CAN LISTEN TO THE REPORTS OF PEOPLE WHO ARE NOW TELLING US WHAT IS REALLY GOING ON WITH OUR GOVERMENT.
WWW.VEOH.COM THERE YOU CAN GET SOME EDUCATION ABOUT THE PROYECT CAMELOT ETC.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Big John, Chula Vista, Ca. — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 04:17:33 GMT

Where do all the closed=minded rednecks posting on this blog come from. Under rocks or do they crawl out of walls?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

N Elwell, Denver Col — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 04:46:39 GMT

I hope Cuba doesn't sell any of this drug to the USA because of it's role as world terrorist state.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

John Doe, Seattle, Washington — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 04:47:21 GMT

If Cuba deregulates and transistions to "markets" as someone advised the drug will cost $10K a month just like it would if it had been developed here.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

N Elwell, Denver, Col — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 04:52:55 GMT

How can the USA be 'the best country in the world?' Our streets are riddle with gun crimes and some areas are not much better than third world in terms of deprevation. Most of our citizens don't have health care or sufficient health care and we genitally mutilate the majority of our males. However, we are expert at designing and manufacturing ways of killing our fellow humans and of peddling death on a global scale. We should be ashamed of the money we spend on arms and killing.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Steve B . Oakland, CA — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:22:40 GMT

When I worked in Cuba with the Venceremos Brigade helping on a construction crew, I became sick from eating too many mangos. A Cuban doctor put two pills into a cup of water that was in a metalic glass and told me to drink up. When I asked her what was in the glass, she shrugged her shoulders and replied, "don't worry we are not like American doctors we do not want to poison you." I took the potion and my somach ache went away and never had to pay a cent. Why do we have fifty million uninsured people in this country? If we can spend 586 billion in Iraq and Afghanistan how can we say we cannot afford to provide health insurance for every person here free of charge?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Keko Jones, smallville ,USA — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:25:08 GMT

THE "ones" in miami only want one thing.."$$$$money and capitalism...that's why they deserted their homeland,deny their heritage and criticize everything that comes from the island....Way top go Cuba!!!! keep up the good work for the sake of the world!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Antonio Del Rosario, San Juan, Puerto Rico — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:37:23 GMT

Good medicine (and medicines), just like food, shelter, arts and sports, should not be constrained by political restraints or boundaries. I believe these to be part of an "universal heritage" to which all human beings should have access.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Eli Hernandez, long beach, ca — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:49:15 GMT

jajaja..that cuba is patenting what?...jejejeje..is the supreme leader Fidel wrote already in the only newpaper in the front page jet? jajaj..ummmm..this is another victory of the socialism over USA..jajjaja...I can see that coming...jajajaja

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Jose, Toronto, Canada. — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 06:05:06 GMT

Some canadians go to the states for treatment because the states has shorter waiting lines for certain things thats all, but if you get a bullet on your head, they will attent you right away, once i had a problem and sometimes on the same day i would see 3 different doctors and not a cent paid. Simply we got longer waiting lines than the states but thats because MORE PEOPLE GET TREATMENT than in the states, sure if you are a millionaire in the states you would be better off with the health care they got in america but how many of us are millionaire? or even better why not do like england and venezuela that have socialist health care and private one for the ones who can afford it.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Angry American — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 06:05:19 GMT

Kudos to Cuba! If the US would spend more money on cancer research than using military force to enforce a democracy in Iraq (WTF?), then we might be known as the greatest nation on earth for reasons other than being a bully and sticking our nose in where it's not wanted. And it might take two years before the US will begin studies on this drug? Another example of our "wonderful" government taking care of the people who put the politicians in office AND pay their salary. It seems that with all the profits the politicians are making (under the table) with the exhorbitant gas prices, they could feed some of this money toward cancer research if they truly cared about the American people. Don't get me wrong. I love America and always will! I just disgusts me to see it collapsing from the inside because of our corrupt political system, and both parties are to balme! Because I live in a free country and I have the freedom of choice, I choose to abstain from wasting my vote this year on yet another self serving politician, full of false promises (lies) and saying what people want to hear in order to get a vote or a campaign contribution. It makes me angry that our military people dying everyday, fighting to keep us free, while their houses are being forclosed on back home. What the hell has happened to this country? If you think about it, do we REALLY have freedom here in the US? Thank goodness our government is taking care of us!(obvious sarcasm)

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Connie, Lake Placid, Florida — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 06:15:00 GMT

I read this and am torn about the actual truths about the article...REMEMBER all you different ethnic people including you so called anglo-saxon readers, you should NOT believe EVERYTHING you read! I believe that they have this NEW MEDICINE because I work in a hospital in Miami with several HIGHLY INTELLIGENT CUBAN Physicians.I'm told by THESE Doctors (that are now in the states)that this medicine will only be seen by tourist who pay cash, hence why the last part of the article clearly stated so! It certainly will be available FREE to certain VIP & government officials but (I'm told at work)the common folks will probably die before its "their turn on the list"comes up to get the drug!! KUDOS to CUBA!! But do we really want 50%-80% of our paychecks to go to taxes!! Ask any CANADIAN nurse(who lives in the states) what SOCIALIZED medicine is REALLY all about!?! And ask a CUBAN nurse or doctor(that live in the states)what SOCIALIZED medicine is REALLY about....I guarantee you'll get two DIFFERENT ACTUAL accounts especially regarding the ACTUAL conditions in "common folks" hospital in Cuba as opposed to Canada.... I'm told of great things and of horrible things;that at the end of the day,(as a healthcare worker) I'm glad to live and work in the USA. But if I came down with cancer, I'd probably take my cash and a short trip to CUBA!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

James — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 06:17:43 GMT

"WTF - what did we spend the money on - Tanks?" $580 billion in Iraq, for starters. Also, US drug manufacturers spend more on marketing than they do on research.
Ernie Mercer, Northfield, NJ

Let's get something straight...we didn't spend $580 billion on our war in Iraq...WE BORROWED $580 BILLION TO GO TO WAR IN IRAQ, We still have to pay for it.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Nick, Austin, Texas — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 06:19:33 GMT

This is a medical article informing about a medical breakthrough that gives hope to the millions suffering from cancer. I don't believe in socialized healthcare. We pay so much for healthcare because it costs money to maintain such high quality services. Why is it that so many other countries send their sick people to the States? Because we have some of the best healthcare in the world! I'd rather pay more to get top-quality service than get an ok job for free. I think it's wrong to have your government carry you and baby you. Our government is not heartless. We do help those who can't help themselves such as the elderly, the children, and our veterans. Don't be a victim. Get up and get a job instead of relying on the government to support you completely. UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE = :( Socialized education is pushing it. Most public schools suck. Some are pretty nice but for the most part, yuck. Trust me, I go to one.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

H.D. Cole Oakland MD — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 07:10:31 GMT

OUR drugs are made in China, A commie country, Russia, still part Commie, and that is just fine with the American people. But Cuba well that is a different, story. This does not square with me,OH yea I served my country in VET-NAM alos a country that makes some of our druggs. Enough from ME

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

J.M.MSISKA Blantyre, Malawi Central Africa — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 07:33:34 GMT

Please lets learn to give credit when and where it is due.There are great and mad people evrywhere and there is a pool of beggars just as there are everywhere.B=Shame to all recycled Cubans living in Miami/Florida

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

xxx — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 07:36:50 GMT

I see the reason why Fidel Castro is living longer and stronger as he aged. Thanks to those foreigners coming to United State with their rusty college education. We are a nation of illiterates, gun happy cowboys, fatty harmburger brains.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Luis Flores — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:20:44 GMT

To begin, Cuba does not have the best Doctors in the world. The reason they have so many doctors is because the governemtn forces the smart individuals to become doctors. Nonetheless, they make good strides in medicine and hope this can help cancer patients. By the way, the reason medical school cost so much in the US is because students have access to state of the art facilities and have great tech. Cuban medical school dont carry much technology. Also, stop complaining about our healthcare system, if u dont like it then just move to a country that has free healthcare. This is what is wrong with many AMericans, they complain to much!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Don Harris, Ft.Hood, Texas — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:58:15 GMT

WTF - what did we spend the money on - Tanks?" $580 billion in Iraq, for starters. Also, US drug manufacturers spend more on marketing than they do on research. Our Government spends more than that on a rapidly failing public school system. Incidently, we do have a public health insurance available for the needy. It's called "Medicaid," and "Medicare," if you are impoverished, or elderly, you may apply for it. It is covered by the state, rather than federal government. I have seen public schools, public housing, and public transportation. I assure you, I have no interest in public health care.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

lizzy in seattle — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 09:42:40 GMT

Way to go Cuba!! This is the best news I've heard all day . . . come to think of it, this is the only *good* news I've heard today.

The rest is special ops destabilizing Iran, and cocaine in the caribbean, levees breaking in the Midwest, etc.

So awesome that somewhere in the world people just focussed hard on doing something good. Took it all the way to completion and didn't worry about how much money they'd make.

Awesome!! Yay!!

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

bruce, blue springs, mo — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:07:14 GMT

I do not know a lot about Cuba life right now. I do know that as a society we have a responsibility to take care of our weakest member.
I read through most of the posts and am amazed at the "coldness" of some of the posts. To those who do not believe that affordable health care should be made available. I hope you would never have a heart attack that left you disabled. Or any number of other things that can take your livelihood from you.
Or have a child that get sick from luekemia or any number of other diseases and or injuries. In any of these cases I do beleive that you would be the first in line for help.
My point is it is easy to be criticial when you do not need the service. My hope is that as a people we will remain compassionate to our own people first. Something that has been sorely lacking.
To find hunger and homelessness in this the "super power" of the world is a shame each of us should try to eliminate. That our children are dying is swept under the rug. I am proud to be an American, I am proud to have served my country. I am also saddened by some of the comments here. Then we wonder why so many foreigner people dislike us

shaking my head

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Philip Roberson, Amarillo, TX — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:13:59 GMT

perhaps other countries aren't entirely driven by greed, the way our's has become. It's a fact that most other countries provide a level of healthcare for their citizenry, as a result of the taxation imposed upon them. What "bang for your buck" are you getting from Uncle Sam, other than to finance an immoral war which we should've never began?

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

ML,Fremantle,Australia — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:28:03 GMT

Well done Cuba.I have been to the US twice and have to say to those who think it is the best place in the world-Have you actually been anywhere else.I think it's ok but has it's share of problems .Here we have govt medical/education for everyone,and I'm happy for all countries research.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Enrique Rodriguez Iowa City Iowa. — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:42:32 GMT

It is very sad to read opinions of people who have no idea how the health care system in Cuba really works. I was an unfortunate patient of one the best hospitals in Cuba. I slept in blood soak bed for two months with no pain killers. According to the doctor I had to hope for the best since they could not do much and because I was the cause of the accident. Of course the treatment would have been different if I had been a citizen of another country.

Cuba develops 'breakthrough' cancer drug

Ross Laurel, Maryland — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:15:54 GMT

This Comment section is very good source of information to evaluate how ignorant americans are. Keep it up MSNBC.