Seek, and ye shall find: Accessing the global epidemiological literature in different languages
2008

Accessing Global Epidemiological Literature in Different Languages

Editorial

Author Information

Author(s): Isaac CH Fung

Primary Institution: Imperial College London

Hypothesis

All systematic reviews in epidemiology and public health should include literature published in the major languages of the world.

Conclusion

Increased access to non-English scientific literature will better serve epidemiology.

Supporting Evidence

  • Non-English-speaking countries are at a disadvantage in global scientific communication.
  • Systematic reviews should include literature published in major languages.
  • Access to non-English literature can improve epidemiological research.

Takeaway

This editorial says that researchers should look for health studies written in many languages, not just English, to get a fuller picture of global health.

Limitations

The languages discussed are not an exhaustive list of major scientific languages.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1742-7622-5-21

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