Editorial standards and review process
How we ensure every article on MJPHM is accurate, evidence-based, and genuinely useful for our readers.
Why this matters
Health information directly affects the decisions people make about their wellbeing. A misleading article about diabetes management or an inaccurate claim about a traditional remedy can cause real harm. That responsibility shapes every part of how we produce content at MJPHM.
This page explains exactly how we create and maintain health information — so you know what to expect from every article you read on this site.
Content review process
Every article published on MJPHM passes through a structured multi-step review. Nothing goes live without completing this process.
Research and evidence gathering
Each article begins with a thorough review of the current evidence base. We consult peer-reviewed medical literature, official health authority guidelines, and national health data to establish a foundation of verified facts before writing begins.
Writing with source attribution
Articles are written with inline source references throughout. Every factual claim, statistic, and health recommendation must be traceable to a specific, credible source. We do not publish health claims that cannot be independently verified.
Accuracy verification
Before publication, each article undergoes a fact-checking pass where key claims are cross-referenced against primary sources. Statistics are verified against their original publications. Medical terminology is checked for precision and correct usage.
Editorial review for clarity and balance
Content is reviewed for readability, balanced presentation of evidence, and appropriate use of qualifying language. Health topics with ongoing scientific debate are presented with multiple perspectives and clearly noted areas of uncertainty.
Publication and ongoing monitoring
After publication, every article displays a “last reviewed” date. We actively monitor content against new research findings and updated health authority guidelines, revising articles when the evidence base changes.
Sourcing standards
The credibility of our content depends on the quality of the evidence behind it. We hold ourselves to strict sourcing requirements.
We do not rely on single-study findings to make broad health claims, unverified social media content, promotional materials from pharmaceutical or supplement companies, or sources that have not undergone peer review or institutional oversight.
Editorial principles
Evidence first
We follow the evidence, even when findings are complex or inconclusive. Articles present what the research shows, not what makes the simplest headline.
Transparency
Sources are cited clearly. When evidence is limited or conflicting, we say so. Readers deserve to know the strength of the evidence behind every claim.
Local relevance
We prioritise data and research from Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Global evidence is contextualised for our region’s healthcare systems and populations.
Regular updates
Health knowledge evolves. Every article carries a review date, and we actively update content when new evidence warrants revision.
Content update policy
Every article on MJPHM carries a visible publication date and a “last reviewed” date. Our update policy follows a structured cycle.
Articles covering rapidly evolving topics — such as infectious disease outbreaks or newly released clinical guidelines — are reviewed and updated within 30 days of significant new evidence. Articles on established health topics are reviewed on a routine six-month cycle. When an article is updated, we note what changed and why.
If we identify an error in any published article, we correct it promptly and note the correction transparently. For details on how we handle corrections and retractions, see our editorial policy and ethics page.
Spotted an error? If you believe any article on MJPHM contains inaccurate information, please let us know at editorial@mjphm.org.my. We investigate every report and correct confirmed errors promptly.
For authors
If you’re a health professional, researcher, or medical writer interested in writing for MJPHM, we welcome your expertise. All submissions are held to the standards described on this page and reviewed through the same editorial process.
Read our author guidelines for full details on content requirements, sourcing expectations, and how to submit.
Questions about our editorial standards? Contact editorial@mjphm.org.my