Havana Syndrome study halted as review finds some patients were coerced

Havana Syndrome is a mysterious illness that has affected American and Canadian diplomats in Cuba since 2016. The syndrome is linked to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, cognitive difficulties, and even hearing loss. However, a recent study on the syndrome has been halted after a review found that some of the patients involved were coerced.

This review noted that there was not enough consent from the patients for the study to proceed, violating medical ethics standards. The coercion reportedly involved patients feeling pressured to participate in the study, while some felt their jobs were threatened if they declined.

The halt in the study is expected to further delay reaching any definitive conclusions about the cause of the illness. Various theories have been proposed for the cause of Havana Syndrome, including microwaves or sonic attacks, though none have been proven with certainty.

The researchers involved in the halted study are cooperating with the review and have voiced their commitment to the ethical treatment of study participants. Going forward, the investigators will be working on revising their protocols to respect patients’ rights and ensure that participation is fully voluntary.