Institutional Review Board Preparedness for Disaster Research: a Practical Approach

This article describes approaches for IRB preparedness in reviewing disaster research.Recent FindingsFrom a human research protections perspective, primary attention has focused on vulnerability of individuals and/or populations affected by a disaster who may serve as research participants [3,4]. From our review of the current literature, there is a lack of best practices and/or guidance for IRBs in the review of disaster research protocols.SummaryThe growth of the disaster research field has brought more attention to potential ethical concerns of disaster research studies. Disaster survivors, responders, and those that assist in cleanup and remedial efforts may be left with significant unmet needs and long-term physical and emotional challenges as a result of their experiences. It is important for IRBs and investigators to collaboratively address how best to protect the welfare of individuals and communities affected by a disaster. A new approach is needed to systematically consider the various factors relevant to an assessment of human research protection issues following disasters.
Source: Current Environmental Health Reports - Category: Environmental Health Source Type: research