Medical research at the Mexican Institute of Social Security: Seven decades of work, achievements, and challenges

Since its foundation, more than 75 years ago, the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) has carried out multidisciplinary research -biomedical, clinical and epidemiological- focused on understanding and solving the medical problems that afflict its beneficiaries (more than 50 % of the Mexican population). Initially, research was the result of individual and isolated efforts. In the 1960s, a small number of researchers formed the first research groups. Currently, 240 full-time scientists work at five centers and 40 research units located in different states of Mexico. In addition, approximately 270 doctors carry out clinical research at different primary, secondary and tertiary care units. During these seven decades, IMSS scientists have made relevant contributions to medicine, which have not only helped increase knowledge on the etiopathogenesis of numerous diseases, but also their diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. This article presents an overview of medical research carried out at IMSS, based on a historical approach and a review of some of the most relevant contributions in different fields of research.