SHARE: An ethical framework for equitable data sharing in Caribbean health research

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Informatics
• Data Science

Background:

• Open data sharing is crucial for collaborative research on complex public health issues.
• Machine learning and advanced analytics enhance the value of global open data repositories.
• Caribbean researchers can leverage open data collaboratives for regional health advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and discuss fundamental ethical challenges in open data sharing for Caribbean researchers.
• To propose a framework promoting equity in health data sharing and research.
• To support culturally responsive and regionally relevant data-driven science in the Caribbean.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of ethical challenges including power dynamics, equity, privacy, and stigma.
• Proposal of the Safeguarding Health And Research data sharing by promoting Equity (SHARE) framework.
• Focus on resource and infrastructure limitations in small island developing states (SIDS).

Main Results:

• Identified key ethical challenges that can impede open data sharing in the Caribbean.
• Proposed the SHARE framework to address these challenges and promote equitable data practices.
• Highlighted the potential for the SHARE framework to support existing regional initiatives and build capacity.

Conclusions:

• Addressing ethical challenges is vital for successful open data sharing in Caribbean public health research.
• The SHARE framework offers a strategic approach to safeguarding health and research data while promoting equity.
• Implementing the SHARE framework can foster intentional data sharing and reuse, benefiting Caribbean communities.