A comparative analysis of terminological inconsistency in scientific translation from English into Arabic across different medical fields

Translating medical terminologies from English into Arabic poses a challenge that usually directly impacts precision and efficiency in medical communication and, hence, the treatment of patients. This paper aims to explore terminology inconsistencies in medical translation and propose methods to enhance accuracy and consistency, thereby addressing a research gap that ultimately impacts healthcare delivery. It addresses research questions regarding common medical inconsistencies in English-to-Arabic translation, their impact on patients as perceived by healthcare professionals, and the tools and strategies employed by medical translators to ensure accuracy. The study is both quantitative and qualitative in nature. In the qualitative part, 100 medical terms were given to 10 medical translators. Out of 100 terms, the study qualitatively analyses 10 translated terms with high inconsistency. The data were classified according to subjects such as ambiguity in the source terminology, variability in translator proficiency, and cultural factors impacting translation. The thematic categorisation of the responses provides an analysis of the main factors contributing to terminological inconsistencies and the challenges faced when translating medical terminology across various specialties. Additionally, two open-ended surveys were disseminated, one involving 50 medical translators and 50 medical specialists in the quantitative part. The respondents’ feedback was analysed to determine the types of errors, their impact on patient clinical outcomes, and the effectiveness of translation processes and tools. The study found that an overwhelming majority of doctors (80%) and nurses (75%) constantly come across examples of translation errors. Medical translators pointed out the complexity of medical vocabulary and professional development in developing continuous improvement. The impact on patient care was significant. Examples given in the findings included poorly understood terms such as ‘hypertension’, ‘myocardial infarction’, and ‘cerebrovascular accident’. Other strategies identified to review and eliminate errors were translation tools, quality control by peer and cadre support, and continuing education. Cultural differences and localisation were cited as influential in delivering accurate translations. The implications of this research are significant for medical translators, healthcare professionals, and patients. Since there will be an improvement in the quality of translation practices, the accuracy of the communication is more likely to improve. Hence, there will be health-related outcomes for patients and seekers of health information.