Which of the following elements must be included in informed consent for participants in epidemiological research?
A Purpose, procedures, potential risks and benefits, and the right to withdraw at any time
B Only the study's purpose and expected benefits
C Study design details and compensation offered
D Confidentiality guarantees and the names of the research team
Solution
Correct Answer: Option A
- The correct answer is Option 1 because informed consent must provide participants with comprehensive information about the study’s purpose, procedures, potential risks and benefits, and their right to withdraw at any time.
- This ensures participants can make a voluntary and informed decision about participation.
- Omitting any of these key elements compromises ethical standards and violates participant autonomy.
- This is a fundamental principle in epidemiological research ethics to protect individuals and maintain trust.
Reference: *Epidemiologic Methods*, Volume 1, Chapter 3, p. 45-47