Abstract

VERGARA-JAIMES, SILVIA MARGARITA; BOTERO-BOLIVAR, SARA  and  DONADO GOMEZ, JORGE HERNANDO. Problem statement in a research project: writing and formulation in the health sciences. Salud, Barranquilla [online]. 2022, vol.38, n.3, pp.919-931.  Epub May 29, 2023. ISSN 0120-5552.  https://doi.org/10.14482/sun.38.3.610.72.

The research problem statement is the starting point of all scientific research, and it is crucially important that this step is carried out correctly. For this reason, it is essential to be aware that the development of a suitable research problem is a complex process that has five parts. First, the clinical condition of interest must be defined, and it is essential to have total clarity about it; it is recommended to write a short description of the disease that serves as a frame of reference for the problem. Subsequently, the problem must be expressed regarding an adverse situation (morbidity, mortality, costs, among others), either for the patient, family, the health system, or society. Third, the research problem implies that there's a gap or discrepancy in current knowledge about said negative situation; to identify it, it is necessary to carry out a comprehensive review of the literature to consider the answers found in previous research. Then, the practical implications or benefits of solving said problem must be estimated. Finally, the research problem must be specified in a justified and structured manner giving place to the research question. In addition, the researcher must be able to determine if his research question meets the necessary elements to be adequate, which are summarized in the mnemonic FINER (feasible, interesting, novel, ethical and relevant).

Keywords : epidemiology; research; research design; research questions.

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