Poor research practices hampering health work, WHO warns

MANILA, 17 August 2011—The World Health Organization (WHO) today expressed disappointment that there is often a lack of relevant evidence to guide important clinical and programme decisions.

"Systematic reviews tell us time and again that the evidence base is inadequate," WHO said.

The stakes are high and the need for credible evidence on what works is urgent, as many countries are still struggling to achieve the health-related Millennium Development Goals, which set out targets for 2015.

One of the problems was that many countries—particularly in the developing world—have inadequate governance and management systems for health research. These countries cannot provide an overview of the research activity or track and monitor research portfolios or investments in health research, WHO said.

Full version of the press release: http://www.wpro.who.int/media_centre/press_releases/pr_20110817.htm

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