In 2025, the Center for Health Studies at Universidad del Valle de Guatemala (CES-UVG) reported progress in public health research, with six studies published in international scientific journals. The research covered issues such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria, air pollution, insect-borne diseases, child growth patterns, and the risks associated with Zika virus during pregnancy.
One study examined the prevalence of extended-spectrum cephalosporin-resistant enterobacterales in Guatemalan communities. Findings showed that 46% of people in the highlands carry bacteria resistant to common antibiotics. The research also found that urban residents, those without waste collection services, or individuals who recently visited hospitals were more likely to harbor these bacteria. "The finding shows that antimicrobial resistance is no longer a problem limited to hospitals but a silent threat circulating in communities," according to CES-UVG researchers. They recommend prevention policies focused on hygiene education, waste management, and responsible use of medication.
Another project involved collaboration between CES-UVG and Guatemala's Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance (MSPAS) in Comapa, Jutiapa. This research assessed an environmental intervention aimed at reducing Chagas disease transmission. While there are fewer insects than before, one in four Triatoma dimidiata bugs remains infected with the parasite. The study also detected the parasite in domestic dogs, confirming their role as transmission bridges. "The follow-up showed that interventions must remain active and community surveillance must be constant to maintain achieved progress," stated CES-UVG.
Indoor air quality was addressed through participation in the international HAPIN project. Researchers measured the effects of fine particles released during cooking using gas stoves compared to traditional wood-burning methods. They discovered that babies exposed to higher household pollution levels during pregnancy experienced more ear infections; however, families switching to gas stoves significantly reduced indoor air contamination.
Further work analyzed links between household air pollution and body mass index among women in rural areas across Guatemala, India, Peru, and Rwanda. Data indicated that greater exposure to carbon monoxide increased overweight risk among women—a finding suggesting domestic air pollution may influence biological processes tied to weight.
A joint effort by CES-UVG and its Educational Research Center (CIE-UVG) explored child growth challenges in low-income settings. Their study found delayed bone maturation contributed significantly to short stature among children—not simply growth cessation—often due to malnutrition. "On average, evaluated children had over a year’s delay in bone development," said investigators. Improved nutrition could help children recover some height lost due to early setbacks.
Lastly, CES-UVG participated in an international study analyzing outcomes from Zika virus infection during pregnancy across 11 countries and over 9,000 pregnancies. Results revealed infected women face quadruple the risk of having babies with microcephaly or other congenital syndromes related to Zika infection.
"Science with purpose" was how CES-UVG described its approach: “The six studies developed by CES-UVG in 2025 show how scientific research can transform health challenges into useful knowledge for society.” The center continues its mission by conducting research on disease surveillance and control while developing evidence-based solutions for public health concerns.
Alerts Sign-up