Abstract

SAN MIGUEL-SIMBRON, José L. General principles governing scientific research in a high altitude context, case of Bolivia: diagnosis of anemia at altitude. Cuad. - Hosp. Clín. [online]. 2021, vol.62, n.1, pp.112-118. ISSN 1562-6776.

ABSTRACT The importance of scientific research related to the definition of iron deficiency anemia at altitude is related to the findings of the studies carried out and that allow advancing scientific knowledge, in vulnerable populations, being that they are aimed at improving public health and influence health policies. The analysis and reflection of an innovative modality for our altitude environment is presented, based on supplementation with iron and folates to define anemia in the studied population, a situation that differs from previous research on the subject in our altitude context. These studies have received intense scrutiny from reviewers who have evaluated the publications on high altitude iron deficiency anemia. The clarity of the designs of formal and randomized controlled clinical triáis, pertinent in time and necessarydue to their importance, were carried out in highiand regions ofBolivia. The lackofrecognition by thirdparties ofthis level ofevidence achieved, would be equivalent to replacing them with studies of non-formal and uncontrolled triáis, that is, to continué applying observational designs, with theoretical and logical contrast that only increase the state of uncertainty on the subject in Bolivia. The summary presented of the history of iron deficiency anemia in high-altitude regions of Bolivia allows us important reflections, namely: 1. It is important to highlight, as a clear example, that simple observation can lead to uncertainty and the cost of its future consequences due to the persistence of iron deficiency anemia in high altitude populations, even more so if the possible trial and error management is maintained in disseminated results. 2. The need for controls in scientific research is demonstrated, and finally 3. Randomized controlled clinical triáis are the best source of reliable evidence.

Keywords : Iron deficiency; nutritional anemia; iron and folate supplementation; randomized controlled clinical trial; high altitude..

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