African Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology | 28 November 2015
A Systematic Review of Health Policy Implications from Medical Research in Benin: An African Perspective,
A, m, i, n, a, A, d, j, a, h, i, ,, K, o, f, f, i, G, b, a, g, u, i, d, i
Abstract
Medical research in African nations informs health policy. Benin faces a complex disease burden and health system challenges. Translating locally generated research into policy is essential for improving health outcomes. This systematic review synthesises evidence on the implications of medical research for health policy in Benin. Its objective is to identify and analyse documented pathways, facilitators, and barriers to translating research findings into policy and practice. A systematic search of multiple electronic databases was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Peer-reviewed articles, reports, and grey literature were included. Studies were screened against pre-defined eligibility criteria. Data were extracted and analysed using thematic synthesis to identify recurring themes. The analysis revealed a significant gap between research production and policy uptake. A prominent theme was the absence of structured mechanisms for researcher-policymaker dialogue. Research on infectious diseases was more frequently cited in policy than work on maternal health or non-communicable diseases. A key barrier was limited institutional capacity for health policy analysis. The translation of medical research into health policy in Benin remains suboptimal and inconsistent. Systemic and institutional challenges, rather than a lack of evidence, hinder the process. Strengthening the research-to-policy interface is critical for evidence-informed decision-making. Establish formal knowledge translation platforms to foster sustained engagement between researchers, policymakers, and implementers. Invest in capacity building for health policy analysis and implementation science within Beninese institutions. Research funders should mandate and support clear dissemination and policy engagement plans. Knowledge translation, health policy, research utilisation, Benin, West Africa, evidence-informed policy. This review provides a consolidated analysis of the research-policy interface in Benin, offering evidence to guide strategies for improving the use of local research in national health policy formulation.