Peruvian authorities have launched an official investigation into the unauthorized leak of global music icon Shakira’s medical records, warning that the hospital responsible could face severe sanctions and hefty fines.
The leak occurred shortly after the 48-year-old Colombian singer was admitted to a Lima clinic’s emergency room on Saturday due to an abdominal condition, which forced her to cancel a highly anticipated Sunday concert. Within hours of her discharge, confidential details of her medical case surfaced on social media, sparking widespread outrage.
Peru’s national health service watchdog, represented by spokeswoman Ruby Cubas, condemned the breach, stating that an immediate probe was underway.
“On Monday, we were at the clinic and met with officials. They have given their explanation, which remains confidential,” Cubas said, adding that the investigation would span 25 days.
Meanwhile, the Delgado Clinic, where Shakira received treatment, also expressed strong disapproval, vowing to take action against any staff involved in what it described as a “serious ethical breach of our code of conduct and regulations governing personal data processing.”
The controversy has ignited discussions on patient privacy in Peru’s healthcare system, with public pressure mounting for stricter enforcement of data protection laws.