Mayfong Mayxay: Field research in Laos
Channel: Tropical Medicine Oxford
Date: 28/10/2020

Professor Mayfong Mayxay from LOMWRU (Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit) in Vientiane, Lao PDR, tells us about the importance of conducting field research in Laos, to better inform national treatment guidelines.
Little clinical research has been conducted in Laos so far, as reflected in the literature, and this results in limited evidence to guide treatments or patient management. Research done so far by LOMWRU has nevertheless influenced health policies in Laos: clinical trials on antimalarial drugs led to the adoption of ACTs, and studies on the causes of fever resulted in changes in treatment guidelines and vaccination programme.