Role of Clinical Translational Research in Achieving Health-Related SDGs in LMICs

Abstract

Clinical translational research (CTR) is an important factor in translating scientific findings to real-life health outcomes particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). CTR can also help bridge the gap between laboratory innovations and accessible diagnostics, therapeutics and population health interventions, contributing to an increase in health related SDGs (SDG 3 in particular Good Health and Well-Being). Resource scarcity, ineffective health systems, excessive disease burden, and research inadequacy are the chronic problems of LMICs that hamper the pace of implementing evidence-based interventions. CTR offers a model of enhancing health systems using context-driven implementation, service to communities and capacity building. In this paper, the authors explore the contribution of the CTR to the development of SDGs by mapping the improvement of disease prevention, early diagnosis, equitable access, and health innovation in the LMICs through translational processes. The results demonstrate that the main aspects of sustainable health development involve the creation of CTR infrastructure, the enhancement of regulatory conditions, and enhanced relationships between academia, governments, and local communities.