Brazilian Indigenous Leader Cacique Raoni Undergoes Palliative Care

Brazilian indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire, also known as Cacique Raoni, has been diagnosed with cancer of the digestive tract at the age of 94. He is receiving palliative care at home in Peixoto de Azevedo, Mato Grosso state, under the care of his family and a medical team. Raoni was hospitalized throughout 2026 and underwent medical tests, experiencing a deterioration in his health. In June, he underwent a procedure at the Federal University of São Paulo hospital to create a new passage for food to pass through, improving his ability to eat and overall comfort. Subsequent tests confirmed the diagnosis of adenocarcinoma, and medical teams recommended palliative care due to his age and clinical condition. Palliative care aims to manage pain and symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life. Raoni, a shaman, continues to receive spiritual care from trusted shamans as part of an intercultural approach respecting his Mẽbêngôkre culture and spiritual beliefs.