Five students from Hanoi Medical University — Pham Hoang Thanh, Nguyen Trong Tan, Nguyen Minh Phuong, Nguyen Nhi Bac, and Hoang Huy Anh — are among 13 authors of a study titled "Dietary Iron Intake and Risk of Gastric Cancer." Their article, published in early February in the prestigious Q1 journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, boasts an impact factor of 3,4.

From left: Pham Hoang Thanh, Nguyen Trong Tan, Nguyen Minh Phuong, Nguyen Nhi Bac, Hoang Huy Anh. *Photo courtesy of subjects*

The study's most significant finding is the discovery of a "U-shaped" relationship between iron and gastric cancer risk. This means the risk of developing the disease can increase in two scenarios: when the body experiences an iron deficiency and when it has an iron surplus. This crucial insight was based on a comprehensive survey conducted by the student group and their supervisor, involving nearly 1,200 patients and about 3,000 control cases across Vietnam.

The Vietnamese team played a pivotal role in the research, from conducting literature reviews and forming hypotheses to analyzing data and drafting the manuscript. They received valuable support for complex statistical algorithm processing from Vietnamese doctors in the US and editing assistance from collaborators in Japan, ensuring the rigor and quality of their work.

Nguyen Nhi Bac, a 6th-year preventive medicine student and the group's "elder sister," highlighted coordination among members as their biggest challenge. The team, comprising students from 2nd to 6th year, had varying levels of knowledge, necessitating diligent self-study in research methods and epidemiology to achieve uniformity. Balancing demanding class schedules, hospital practicals, and meeting times added to their difficulties.

Nguyen Trong Tan, a 3rd-year student and the youngest member, joined the project a year prior. Responsible for data analysis and contributing to the discussion section, Tan faced hurdles as the topic primarily focused on epidemiology, contrasting with his clinical specialization. "The hardest part was getting past the strictness of our supervisor," Tan remarked, acknowledging his growth under the guidance of his lecturer and senior students. Bac praised Tan's ability to quickly read medical English literature, his excellent data processing skills, and his frequent help in identifying errors. His involvement in scientific research from his 2nd year is considered rare for a medical student.

The research group at the Hanoi Medical University student science conference, 2025. *Photo courtesy of subjects*

The group emphasized that publishing in international journals involves a rigorous review process, from manuscript finalization to submission and peer review. They advise students to begin research in their 1st or 2nd year when academic workloads are lighter. By the 4th year, demanding studies and hospital rotations make it difficult to consistently pursue research. Engaging in such projects also offers valuable opportunities to connect with lecturers and real-world topics.

Chau Anh