In an editorial in the April 16 issue of JAMA, Catherine D. DeAngelis, M.D., M.P.H., Editor in Chief, and Phil B. Fontanarosa, M.D., M.B.A., Executive Deputy Editor, JAMA, comment on the studies in this week’s JAMA documenting the apparent misrepresentation of research data by one company and its manipulation of clinical research articles and clinical reviews.
“What are the lessons from the 2 articles in this issue of JAMA, from other publications that have examined related issues, and from extensive experience with how clinical research has been manipulated by for-profit companies" First, manipulation of studies and misrepresentation of study results could not occur without the cooperation (active and tacit) of clinical researchers, other authors, journal editors, peer reviewers, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).”
“Second, public trust for clinical research is in great jeopardy especially when the extent of how widespread such practices have become is unknown. Although we truly believe that the vast majority of researchers and other authors are honest and have the highest scientific integrity, manipulation of studies and publications by the pharmaceutical and medical device industries is either increasing or there has been more exposure of these practices.”
“Third, in addition to clinical research, clinical practice and medical education also are greatly influenced by for-profit companies. Drastic action is essential, and cooperation of everyone involved in medical research, medical editing, medical education, and clinical practice is required for meaningful change to occur.”
Drs. DeAngelis and Fontanarosa propose the following:
“When integrity in medical science or practice is impugned or threatened—such as by the influence of industry—patients, clinicians, and researchers are all at risk for harm, and public trust in research is jeopardized. Ensuring, maintaining, and strengthening the integrity of medical science must be a priority for everyone,” they conclude.
(JAMA. 2008;299[15]:1833-1835. Available pre-embargo to the media at www.jamamedia.org )
Editor’s Note: Please see the article for additional information, including financial disclosures, funding and support, etc.
For More Information: Contact the JAMA/Archives Media Relations Department at 312-464-JAMA or email: mediarelations@jama-archives.org .
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