A Mixed-methods Study to Explore Statistical Quality and Utilization of Research Articles Published in Myanmar Health Sciences Research Journal (2010-2019) | Chapter 08 | Emerging Trends in Disease and Health Research Vol. 7

 The goal of the study was to gather all evidence in the study design and statistical analysis utilised in research articles published in a peer-reviewed health research journal widely distributed in Myanmar. End-user views were also investigated in order to improve the dissemination of research findings.

Mixed Methods Research Design was used in this study.

Methodology: The study designs and statistical procedures utilised in all research publications (n=391) published in the Myanmar Health Sciences Research Journal (MHSRJ) from 2010 to 2019 were examined using a standardised checklist. End-users were interviewed in depth to discover how the research findings could be applied and to find ways to increase accessibility and distribution systems.

Results: Descriptive (cross-sectional) studies (n=191,49 percent) and fundamental scientific (laboratory-based) research (n=129, 33 percent) were the most regularly employed study designs in the literature. Analytical observational studies (n=49, 12 percent) and clinical trials (n=22, 6 percent) made up the rest. Parametric data analysis methods were used in 206 studies (64 percent). The most widely used statistical methods were basic statistics, contingency table analyses, epidemiological statistics, t-test, correlation, and regression analysis, which accounted for 77 percent of the statistical tests. Only a few (16 percent, n=57) of the articles mentioned the sample size computation, despite the fact that the sampling unit and study area/site were completely described in over 92 percent (n=363) of the studies. It was noticed that poor study design and/or statistical methods were used, as well as failures to state the underlying assumption when employing statistical methods. The research findings were also judged to be valuable, but the Journal's dissemination was limited.

Conclusion: According to our findings, a reader with a basic understanding of descriptive statistics, contingency table analysis, epidemiological methods, t-tests, and regression analysis will be able to comprehend 77% of the journal's articles. Flaws in research design and statistical analysis must be addressed in order for paper quality to improve. The use of social media networks may help to spread the word about research findings published in the Journal.

Author(S) Details

Myo Khin
Yangon Research Consultative Group, Myanmar.

Le Le Win
Yangon Research Consultative Group, Myanmar.

San Shwe
Yangon Research Consultative Group, Myanmar.

Khin May Oo
Yangon Research Consultative Group, Myanmar.

Ye Htut
Yangon Research Consultative Group, Myanmar.

Aung Myo Min
Yangon Research Consultative Group, Myanmar.

Htain Win
Yangon Research Consultative Group, Myanmar.

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