Impact and challenges of biomedical publishing in Latin America and the Caribbean: the value of editorial professionalism

Abstract

The article analyzes the impact and challenges of biomedical publishing in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), emphasizing the need to professionalize editorial work to ensure quality, visibility, and sustainability. It highlights the role of databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, and SCImago, along with regional repositories like SciELO, Redalyc, and LILACS, in standardizing criteria and using indicators such as Impact Factor, CiteScore, and SJR.

In LAC, only 3% of Scopus journals originate from the region, with Brazil leading in quantity and Chile standing out when adjusted for population and GDP. Language barriers, limited funding, and editorial issues hinder their presence in top quartiles.

The Andes Pediatrica case illustrates high rejection rates, long peer-review times, and initiatives to train and recognize editors and reviewers. In the context of open science and artificial intelligence, innovation is essential for maintaining the relevance of biomedical journals in the region.