Healthcare is a fundamental right, yet it remains inaccessible to many in the Global South. The Chiesi Foundation is dedicated to canceling this inequality by improving access to quality healthcare for newborns, their mothers, and patients affected by chronic respiratory diseases. By donating your 5×1000 to the Chiesi Foundation, you can support initiatives that address some of the most pressing healthcare challenges in these regions. 

Neonatal Mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa 

Sub-Saharan Africa faces the highest neonatal mortality rates globally, with 27 deaths per 1,000 live births. In 2022, nearly 2.3 million children died within the first 28 days of life worldwide, accounting for 47% of all deaths among children under five. Most neonatal deaths occur due to prematurity, complications, infections, and congenital anomalies, highlighting the critical need for quality healthcare. 

The majority of neonatal deaths—about 75%—occur during the first week of life, and approximately 1 million newborns die within the first 24 hours. These early deaths are often preventable with proper medical care and interventions. 

The Chiesi Foundation’s NEST (Neonatal Essential Survival Technology) Model is working to reduce neonatal mortality in countries like Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Ivory Coast, and Togo. By implementing a family-centered approach, promoting zero separation between the mother and the baby, and empowering healthcare providers, the NEST model aims to improve neonatal care in resource-limited settings. 

Chronic Respiratory Diseases in the Global South 

Chronic respiratory diseases, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), are major causes of mortality in low- and middle-income countries. In 2021, COPD was the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, causing 3.5 million deaths, with 90% of these occurring in countries with limited resources. Other risk factors contributing to chronic respiratory diseases (CRD) include air pollution, chemicals, occupational dust, and frequent lower respiratory tract infections during childhood. 

While chronic respiratory diseases are not curable, various forms of treatment can help control symptoms and improve the daily lives of people living with these conditions. 

The Chiesi Foundation’s GASP (Global Access to Spirometry Project) focuses on developing diagnostic and clinical skills for managing chronic respiratory diseases. This program supports healthcare personnel in Guyana, Nepal, and Peru, enhancing prevention, treatment, and diagnostic services. 

How You Can Help 

Donating your 5×1000 to the Chiesi Foundation is a simple yet impactful way to support these initiatives. Here’s how: 

• Find the 5×1000 section in your tax return (Form 730 or Modello Redditi Persone Fisiche) 

• Enter the tax code 92130510347 in the box for “Finanziamento della ricerca scientifica e della università“ 

• Sign the box to confirm your donation. 

You can do so by September 30th. 

What we do with 5×1000 

The 5×1000 represents a percentage of your annual taxes, calculated based on your income. This percentage can be allocated to an organization of your choice and does not entail any additional cost for you. 

Any person who is a tax resident in Italy, whether an employee or a freelancer, can choose who to donate their 5×1000. 

Your 5×1000, if allocated to the Chiesi Foundation, will be transformed into concrete help to support our projects. For example, an annual gross income of €30,000 generates a €38 donation that will be used to advance scientific research and international cooperation programs, transforming into scholarships, professional medical equipment or continuous training for medical and nursing staff. 

Last year (fiscal year 2022), thanks to the generosity of many colleagues, we raised more than €133,000, which allowed us to finance the implementation of the NEST Model in sub-Saharan Africa and the GASP Model in Guyana, Nepal and Peru. 

Support the Foundation to cancel inequalities 

Healthcare is a fundamental human right, and every individual deserves access to quality medical care. By choosing to allocate your 5×1000 to the Chiesi Foundation, you are not only supporting critical healthcare initiatives but also contributing to canceling inequalities and ensuring equitable access to healthcare for the communities of the Global South. 

This simple act of solidarity can make a significant difference in the lives of thousands of people around the world. Together, we can bridge the healthcare gap and create a future where health is truly a right for everyone.