A framework is proposed for defining, categorizing, and assessing conflicts of interest in health research.
J Clin Epidemiol 2022;
149:236-243. [PMID:
35697333 DOI:
10.1016/j.jclinepi.2022.06.001]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
We propose an operational definition of conflicts of interest (COI), a framework for categorizing interests, and an approach to assessing whether an interest qualifies as a COI.
STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING
We reviewed the literature and conducted methodological studies to inform the development of a draft framework for classifying interests.
RESULTS
We developed the following operational definition: "a conflict of interest exists when a past, current, or expected interest creates a significant risk of inappropriately influencing an individual's judgment, decision, or action when carrying out a specific duty". Interest refers to a benefit (e.g., money received from industry) or to an attribute of the individual (e.g., having specific religious beliefs). The proposed framework includes seven types of interests relating to individuals (direct financial benefit, benefit through professional status, intellectual, and personal) or their institution (direct financial benefit to the institution, benefit through increasing services provided by the institution, and nonfinancial). When assessing whether an interest qualifies as a COI, one could consider its relevance, nature (e.g., cash vs. educational support), magnitude, and recency.
CONCLUSION
The proposed operational definition and categorization framework may help journals, guideline organizations, professional societies, and healthcare institutions enhance transparency in health research.
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