Bioethical Issues in Biostatistical Consulting Study: Additional Findings and Concerns
M Q Wang1, A Y Fan2, R V Katz3
11 Department of Behavioral and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA.
JDR Clinical and Translational Research
|April 23, 2019
Summary
Biostatisticians frequently encounter inappropriate data analysis and reporting requests from researchers. Educational programs are urgently needed to address these bioethical issues in research.
Area of Science:
- Biostatistics
- Bioethics
- Research Methodology
Background:
- Biostatisticians in consulting roles often face requests that challenge ethical and scientific standards.
- Previous research highlighted directly experienced inappropriate requests; this study examines indirectly experienced ones.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and severity of indirectly experienced inappropriate data analysis and reporting requests made to biostatisticians by researchers.
- To underscore the need for educational interventions to mitigate unethical research practices.
Main Methods:
- A national online survey was administered to 522 biostatisticians who self-identified as consultants.
- The Bioethical Issues in Biostatistical Consulting Questionnaire was used to collect data on indirectly experienced inappropriate requests.
Main Results:
- 390 biostatisticians (74.7%) completed the survey.
- Top "high severity" inappropriate requests included flawed study design, outlier manipulation, selective data reporting, and overstating findings.
Conclusions:
- Inappropriate requests from biomedical researchers to biostatisticians are widespread.
- There is an urgent need for educational programs for researchers to address these bioethical concerns.
- Remedial actions include researcher education, improved institutional environments, and early biostatistician involvement in study design.
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