Turkey’s publication output in cardiovascular medicine declined in 2010 both in quantity and quality

The performance of Turkey’s institutions was evaluated regarding publication output in cardiovascular medicine in 2010 based on data of the Web of Knowledge. Only articles in full-text and reviews that appeared in source publications covered by Science Citation Index CD Edition were included. A fractional count system was used for items published jointly with a foreign or noncardiological Turkish institution. Turkey’s publications numbered as low as 121, representing more than one-fourth decline, and her share of world publication decreased from 8.2 to 6.1 per mille, to a level below that of before 2001. Ninety-five articles originated from adult cardiology. The median impact factor also declined to 1.60, by one-fifth compared with the previous year; half of the publications appeared in periodicals with an impact factor of 1.15-2.60. Among medical institutions with highest productivity, Gülhane Military Medical Academy, Siyami Ersek Cardiovascular Surgery Center, Türkiye Yüksek İhtisas Hospital, and Kartal Koşuyolu Education and Research Hospital as well as Erciyes University and Cerrahpaşa medical faculties ranked in front. Authorities need to be aware that Turkey’s science and, in particular, cardiology are losing prestige and should take new serious measures.