Historical evolution of the use of biostatistics in scientific publication at the Faculty of Medicine. Bolivian Archives of Medicine Journal.

Abstract

Biostatistics is essential in medical research, providing tools for the analysis and interpre- tation of biological data. This study examines the historical evolution of the use of biostatis- tics in scientific publications at the Faculty of Medicine of the San Francisco Xavier Univer- sity of Chuquisaca, specifically in the journal “Archivos Bolivianos de Medicina”, highligh- ting its impact on the quality and validity of the studies. Materials and Methods: Qualita- tive documentary research was carried out, analyzing publications from 1943 to 2020. Original articles were selected, applying cri- teria of authenticity, credibility, representa- tiveness, and significance. Ethical aspects such as integrity and respect for the authors were taken into account. Results: The re- view of articles showed an evolution in the use of statistical techniques. Since 1943, the use of descriptive statistics was observed, with univariate tables and graphs. Starting in 2012, bivariate analysis and more complex measures such as Odds Ratio and p values began to be used. However, no articles with multivariate analysis were found in recent years. Conclusions: The research reveals that biostatistics in the “Bolivian Archives of Medicine” has evolved, improving the quality of research. Despite these advances, further development is needed in the use of complex statistical techniques. It is recommended that biostatistics training be promoted to streng- then evidence-based practice in medicine.