Leonardo J. Uribe-Cavero, OBEMET Centro de Obesidad y Salud Metabólica, Lima; Red de Cardiología y Salud Pública (RCSP), Ica; Facultad de Medicina Humana, Sociedad Científica de Estudiantes de Medicina de Ica (SOCEMI), Universidad Nacional San Luis Gonzaga, Ica. Perú
Marisella Chumán-Sánchez, OBEMET Centro de Obesidad y Salud Metabólica, Lima, Perú
Medical students’ involvement in cardiovascular research has gained increasing relevance in recent years, driven by the rise of early research programs, the expansion of digital technologies, and the need to train professionals capable of interpreting evidence and addressing the global burden of cardiovascular disease. This study outlines key educational benefits – including strengthened scientific skills, enhanced critical thinking, and improved clinical understanding of cardiovascular risk factors – while also examining barriers such as limited methodological training, uneven access to mentorship and resources, and weak research culture at the undergraduate level. Additionally, it highlights emerging opportunities, including curricular integration of research, international training models, digital platforms, and growing collaboration with regional scientific societies. Current evidence suggests that engaging medical students in cardiovascular research can foster a culture of prevention, stimulate scientific career pathways, and support capacity-building efforts in low- and middle-income countries.
Keywords: Cardiovascular diseases. Medical students. Medical education.