Strengthening the research to policy and practice interface: exploring strategies used by research organisations working on sexual and reproductive health and HIV/AIDS
2011

Using Research to Influence Sexual and Reproductive Health Practice in Sub-Saharan Africa

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Olivia Tulloch, Philippe Mayaud, Yaw Adu-Sarkodie, Kofi Opoku Baafuor, Nana Oye Lithur, Eugene Sickle, Sinead Delany-Moretlwe, Mwita Wambura, John Changalucha, Sally Theobald

Primary Institution: Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine

Hypothesis

How can research evidence be effectively communicated to influence policy and practice in sexual and reproductive health?

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of ongoing partnerships and advocacy in ensuring research is effectively translated into policy and practice.

Supporting Evidence

  • Research evidence is crucial for informing policy decisions in sexual and reproductive health.
  • Partnerships between researchers and policymakers enhance the likelihood of research being used in practice.
  • Legislative changes can occur when research findings are effectively communicated to key stakeholders.

Takeaway

This study shows that to make health policies work, researchers need to talk to and work with the people who make and follow the rules.

Methodology

The study analyzed case studies from sexual and reproductive health research programs in Sub-Saharan Africa using frameworks for understanding research use.

Limitations

The findings may not be applicable to other contexts due to the specific political and cultural factors in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1478-4505-9-S10

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