Conflicts of interest in government-funded studies

Abstract

Conflict of interest in scientific publications has become a topic of critical importance. A primary focus has been the relationship between authors, journals and the pharmaceutical industry. That focus must be expanded to include government funding organizations. There are significant benefits to authors and investigators in participating in government-funded research, and to journals in publishing it. There are substantial risks to patients in not considering the potential for conflict of interest.

Key words::

• CONFLICT OF INTEREST
• COI
• WOMEN’S HEALTH INITIATIVE
• WHI
• NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH
• NIH
• GOVERNMENT FUNDING

Conflict of interest Dr J. H. Pickar was formerly an employee of Wyeth Research, and has received consultant fees from Wyeth/Pfizer, Besins Healthcare, Shionogi Inc., Metagenics, and TherapeuticsMD.

Source of funding Nil.