The Struggle of Neglected Scientific Groups: Ten Years of NeTropica Efforts to Promote Research in Tropical Diseases in Central America
2011

Ten Years of NeTropica Efforts in Tropical Disease Research

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Moreno Edgardo, Gutiérrez José María, Chaves-Olarte Esteban

Primary Institution: Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica

Hypothesis

Control of maladies can only be achieved if scientific groups settled in their countries investigate and understand the key determinants of diseases affecting their population.

Conclusion

NeTropica has successfully promoted scientific research in Central America, leading to increased local scientific capacity and understanding of tropical diseases.

Supporting Evidence

  • NeTropica has allocated 54 grants averaging US$35,000 to Central American scientific consortia.
  • Over 90% of KIRT students remain academically active in Central American universities.
  • 54 indexed scientific documents have been published acknowledging NeTropica's support.

Takeaway

NeTropica helps scientists in Central America study and solve health problems in their own countries, making research more relevant and effective.

Methodology

NeTropica funded collaborative research proposals from Central American scientific teams, evaluated by international experts.

Limitations

Most groups in Central America lack access to research funds, which limits their ability to apply for competitive international grants.

Participant Demographics

Central American scientists from various public universities.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pntd.0001055

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