Beyond data extraction: Rethinking research dissemination and knowledge translation in vulnerable communities

Research conducted in vulnerable communities often generates valuable evidence, yet the findings do not always return to the communities, practitioners, or policymakers who could use them. This article critically examines the gap between research production, dissemination, and knowledge translation in studies involving vulnerable and marginalised communities. Using a structured desktop research design, the study reviewed academic literature, policy documents, institutional guidelines, and selected grey literature published between 2010 and 2025. A transparent search and selection process was applied across Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, ResearchGate, and institutional repositories. After screening and eligibility checks, 45 sources were retained for thematic synthesis. Data were charted using a structured extraction matrix and analysed through deductive and inductive thematic coding guided by the Knowledge-to-Action framework, Participatory Action Research, and Critical Theory. The synthesis shows that dissemination failures are produced through interlocking structural, ethical, and accessibility barriers. Academic incentive systems continue to reward journal publication more strongly than community engagement, while paywalls, technical language, digital exclusion, and limited policy-oriented formats constrain the use of findings. The review also shows that the ethical obligation to return findings is inconsistently operationalised, allowing extractive research practices to persist. Contemporary examples from South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa demonstrate that dissemination becomes more meaningful when it is dialogical, locally adapted, and embedded in partnerships from the beginning of a study. The article recommends early dissemination planning, institutional recognition of engagement work, stronger policy partnerships, and community-centred communication methods. Addressing the dissemination gap is essential for ethical, socially responsive, and impactful research.