Definition: Any financial or non-financial factors that could potentially compromise the objectivity, integrity, or perceived value of publication. These interests might influence the decisions and actions of authors, affecting how data is presented, analyzed, and interpreted. By identifying and managing these interests, we aim to maintain transparency and trust in the research process.
Financial Competing Interests:
Research Funding: When authors receive financial support for their research, it is important to disclose this information. Financial support can include salaries, equipments, supplies, and other expenses funded by organizations that may benefit or suffer financially from the publication. It is also important to specify the funder’s role in the research, including their involvement in the study design, data collection, analysis, publication decisions, or manuscript preparation. Full disclosure helps readers understand any potential biases that might arise from these financial relationships.
Employment: Authors must disclose any current, recent, or anticipated employment with organizations that could be financially affected by the publication. This includes any employment during the research period. Transparency about employment relationships ensures the readers are aware of any potential conflicts of interest that might influence the research outcomes.
Personal Financial Interests: Authors should declare any personal financial interests that could be affected by their publication. This includes owning stocks or shares in companies that might gain or lose financially, receiving consulting fees or honoraria, or being reimbursed for attending conferences. Additionally, any patents or patent applications, whether pending or granted, should be disclosed, including details about the applicant, inventors, application number, status, and how it relates to the manuscript. Investments in diversified mutual funds or trusts are generally not considered a competing financial interest and do not need to be disclosed.
Non-Financial Competing Interests: Non-financial interests can also influence the integrity of a publication and should be declared to ensure transparency. These interests might include personal or professional relationships that could affect the author’s judgment. Examples include unpaid roles in government or non-governmental organizations, membership in advocacy or lobbying groups, advisory positions in commercial entities, and contributions as a writer or consultant for educational companies.
By openly declaring these interests, authors help maintain the highest standards of integrity and trust in the publication process. This transparency allows readers to fully understand the context in which the research was conducted and consider any potential biases when evaluating the findings.