Problems associated with conducting illness prevention and health promotion research in developing countries

Conducting research projects that are related to illness prevention in developing countries is complex and challenging. In this article we discuss those areas common to health programs which pose potential problems to researchers; especially those foreign to the community in which a research project is taking place. Results from past experiences have indicated that failure to involve community members and indigenous research workers can lead to mistrust, misconceptions, and self-protection. Also, whenever villagers feel that the information they give may be used against them, they may be forced to alter or conceal true data. Health investigators and granting agencies must be prepared to acquaint themselves with problems related to communication, transportation, weather, and how local governments function officially and unofficially so as to guard against unrealistic assumptions and expectations. It has also been noted that students from developing countries are often faced with the double dilemma of attempting to ride the roller coaster between two cultures; and in essence, be a part of both when working on research projects with their professors from developed countries.