Exploring the Relationship between Sci‐Hub and Medical Literature

ABSTRACT This short paper presents an analysis of the distribution of downloads in medical literature, with the aim of understanding the specific conditions unique to the medical research field that necessitate the use of black open access sources such as Sci‐Hub. The dataset used in this analysis was obtained by scraping the official Sci‐Hub domains during the summer of 2022, and it provides valuable insights into user behavior and interaction with the website. The results demonstrate that a significant portion of the downloads from Sci‐Hub during the period were related to medical journals, indicating the acute needs and time‐sensitive nature of medical research. The data further highlights that most of the downloaded papers were related to medicine or medical subjects, underscoring the importance of easy and immediate access to the latest research and literature. The study emphasizes the pressing need for universal access to essential health‐care information and the importance of continued efforts to democratize access to medical literature. The use of black open access sources like Sci‐Hub serves as a reminder of the urgency to find alternative solutions that ensure medical professionals have the necessary resources to provide the best possible care for their patients