The country
Peru is a South American country characterized by extraordinary geographical diversity. Its territory extends across three main regions: the Pacific coast, the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. This variety of landscapes has given rise to a rich biodiversity and a great variety of ecosystems. The Andes, in particular, are the backbone of the country and are home to some of the highest peaks on the continent.
In 2023, Peru’s population was approximately 33,845,617. Demographic growth is significant, with a population growth rate of 1.2%. The population distribution is predominantly rural, with 60% of the population living in rural areas. Life expectancy at birth is approximately 69 years for men and 75 years for women.
From a socioeconomic point of view, Peru is a developing country. The Peruvian economy is based mainly on mining, agriculture and tourism. The mining sector, especially copper and gold, is very important for the national economy. Despite the economic progress of recent years, social inequalities remain significant, with large segments of the population living in poverty.
In recent decades, the country has consolidated democracy and experienced sustained economic growth. However, numerous political challenges remain, including the fight against corruption, reducing social inequalities, and protecting the environment. The health situation also presents significant challenges, with endemic infectious diseases and limited access to health services, especially in rural areas.
In 2021, the mortality rate for lower respiratory infections in Peru was approximately 58 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants. This data highlights the urgent need to improve the management of respiratory diseases in the country. The Chiesi Foundation, through the GASP project (Global Access and Spirometry Project) is working to address these challenges and improve the quality of life of patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
(Source: data.who.int)
Peru in numbers
Peru in numbers
Our intervention
Since 2019, Chiesi Foundation has supported the Santa Rita Polyclinic in Cusco in the creation of a pulmonology service through the implementation of the GASP – Global Access to Spirometry Project.
The Santa Rita Polyclinic is the health facility belonging to the Centro Santa Rita Association which was born in the context of human promotion and support to people in need.
The association was established in 2006 by the Regional Vicariate of the Augustinian Fathers of Apurimac, in collaboration with the Apurimac ONLUS Association, an NGO recognized by the Italian and Peruvian governments. The final beneficiaries of the project are represented by the 450,000 people belonging to the districts of Cusco.
Among the direct recipients, we find the patients expected during the duration of the project, the patients followed during rehabilitation therapy, the trained health personnel and the various communities that will participate in training courses on respiratory diseases and therapeutic recommendations in the city of Cusco.
Thanks to a strong partnership with the Spanish Society of Pneumology (SEPAR) and the support of Chiesi’s Spanish subsidiary, the project is creating a network of healthcare facilities that work in synergy to ensure quality care for patients.
In 2022, the project took shape with the definition of a shared strategy and the launch of the first activities. In 2023, the collaboration was further strengthened with the official entry of SEPAR Solidaria, which will be responsible for strengthening the training of local healthcare personnel.
The joint visit to Cusco, which took place in November 2023, represented a fundamental moment to define the next steps of the project and to start a co-design process with local partners. The goal is to create an integrated care system, capable of offering patients a complete and continuous diagnostic and therapeutic path.
Our intervention
Since 2019, Chiesi Foundation has supported the Santa Rita Polyclinic in Cusco in the creation of a pulmonology service through the implementation of the GASP – Global Access to Spirometry Project.
The Santa Rita Polyclinic is the health facility belonging to the Centro Santa Rita Association which was born in the context of human promotion and support to people in need.
The association was established in 2006 by the Regional Vicariate of the Augustinian Fathers of Apurimac, in collaboration with the Apurimac ONLUS Association, an NGO recognized by the Italian and Peruvian governments. The final beneficiaries of the project are represented by the 450,000 people belonging to the districts of Cusco.
Among the direct recipients, we find the patients expected during the duration of the project, the patients followed during rehabilitation therapy, the trained health personnel and the various communities that will participate in training courses on respiratory diseases and therapeutic recommendations in the city of Cusco.
Thanks to a strong partnership with the Spanish Society of Pneumology (SEPAR) and the support of Chiesi’s Spanish subsidiary, the project is creating a network of healthcare facilities that work in synergy to ensure quality care for patients.
In 2022, the project took shape with the definition of a shared strategy and the launch of the first activities. In 2023, the collaboration was further strengthened with the official entry of SEPAR Solidaria, which will be responsible for strengthening the training of local healthcare personnel.
The joint visit to Cusco, which took place in November 2023, represented a fundamental moment to define the next steps of the project and to start a co-design process with local partners. The goal is to create an integrated care system, capable of offering patients a complete and continuous diagnostic and therapeutic path.
Our main activities in Peru
Preparation of pneumology service.
Training of health professionals and awareness-raising activities.
Management and cost efficiency program.
Establishment of a partnership with SEPAR – Spanish Society of Pulmonology.
