- Paper still on open access on other sites though, with experts warning it could still be used to spread misinformation
- Journal editors yet to respond to issues raised by institution in Tanzania that demanded corrective measures
A research paper published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology that cited alarming data on the prevalence of HIV infection in the Tanzanian population is no longer accessible in the journal’s original website. However, it is still accessible on other internet sites due to its open access nature.
The development comes in the amidst of growing scrutiny and calls for action following reactions from the scientific community and the government of Tanzania.
The paper, titled: “Sexual Behaviors and HIV Status: A Population-Based Study among Youths and Adults in Tanzania,” authored by Adeleye Ayinde Adaralegbe and colleagues, was widely criticized for its “erroneous” claim that approximately 80% of the Tanzanian population is living with HIV.”
Also read: NIMR, Top Scientists Speak Out On Paper Citing ‘80% Tanzanians Living With HIV’
The National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) formally requested the Editor-in-Chief of the US-based journal to either provide the source and authentication of the data in question or issue a retraction of the publication.
However, MedicoPRESS has confirmed that the Editor is yet to respond to the institute. The author of the paper has not responded to enquiries on this matter either, leading to speculation that the “Editor may have decided to take corrective action without a formal reply.”
Also read: Scientific Paper Under Scrutiny For Claiming 80% Of Tanzanians Living With HIV
NIMR had also requested that the author: Adeleye A. Adaralegde, colleagues, and their institution take appropriate measures to address the inaccuracies in the publication. This includes issuing a public apology to mitigate any potential harm caused by the dissemination of misleading information.
As the paper remains accessible via other internet sources, this potentially heightens the risk of misinformation, researchers say.
