5078.0: Wednesday, October 24, 2001 - 9:31 AM

Abstract #32239

Ethical considerations for collecting biological specimens in less developed countries

Adnan A. Hyder, MD, MPH, PhD, Department of International Health, Division of Community Health and Health Systems, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Suite E-8132, Baltimore, MD 21205, 410-955-1253, ahyder@jhsph.edu

Collecting biological samples in large-scale surveys has presented important challenges to those who must ensure the ethical conduct of such work. This paper will review standards that have been adopted in developed countries and discuss their application in less developed countries. Issues include informed consent, report of findings, and IRB (Institutional Review Board) procedures. Studies of samples collected for statistical purposes require special consideration. The discussion will be couched within the international debate between those who advocate different ethical standards for developed and less-developed countries and those who support a unified global code of conduct.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: 1. Identify ethical standards for the collection of survey data that have been adopted in developed countries. 2. Describe issues in their adoption or adaptation for less developed countries. 3. Indicate the special ethical considerations raised by the collection and analysis of biological samples.

Keywords: Survey, Ethics

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA