Brazilian indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire, known as Cacique (chief) Raoni, aged 94, has been diagnosed with cancer of the digestive tract and is receiving palliative care at home in Peixoto de Azevedo, in Mato Grosso state, where he is being cared for by his family and a medical team. The news was released Monday (Sep. 14) by the Raoni Institute on social media.

The statement notes that, throughout 2026, Raoni was hospitalized, underwent medical tests, and experienced a deterioration in his health. In June, he was transferred on an emergency basis to São Paulo after developing a severe intestinal obstruction caused by the tumor. He then underwent a procedure at the Federal University of São Paulo (Unifesp) hospital that created a new passage to allow food to pass through and improve his ability to eat and his overall comfort.

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Subsequent tests confirmed the diagnosis of adenocarcinoma. According to the Raoni Institute, given his age, clinical condition, and the risks associated with more aggressive treatments, the medical teams recommended palliative care.

Palliative care aims to manage pain and other symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life. Care includes medical and nursing assistance, physical therapy, as well as support with nutrition and hydration.

“Care also involves the spiritual dimension. Raoni is a shaman and continues to receive the presence and care of shamans he trusts, as part of an intercultural approach that respects the Mẽbêngôkre culture, his language, his choices, and his spiritual beliefs,” the statement says.

Cacique Raoni is one of Brazil’s leading indigenous leaders and has been advocating for decades on behalf of indigenous peoples, their territories, and the rainforest. His work has gained international recognition for his efforts in defense of the Amazon and indigenous rights.