How often must IRBs review ongoing research?

Ethical oversight in research involving human participants is critical to safeguarding their rights and welfare. Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) are mandated to conduct ongoing reviews of research studies to ensure that they remain compliant with ethical standards and that participants continue to be protected throughout the research process. The requirement for at least annual reviews helps to ensure that changes to the research protocol, participant safety concerns, or updated regulatory guidelines are regularly assessed.

Annual reviews allow IRBs to evaluate various aspects of the study, including risk assessment, informed consent processes, and the overall integrity of the research. Moreover, these reviews provide an opportunity to address any concerns that may arise as the study progresses. Such systematic oversight is essential to maintaining ethical standards in research and protecting participants.

In contrast, reviewing the research monthly, quarterly, or only at the end of the study would not provide sufficient oversight, potentially allowing ethical issues to go unaddressed for extended periods. Therefore, the requirement for at least an annual review strikes a balance between ensuring participant safety and allowing researchers the necessary time to conduct their studies effectively.