Conflicts of interest among articles published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology

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6633 Background: The integrity of scientific and clinical research is dependent on the avoidance of conflicts of interest (COI). Hence, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has implemented a COI policy pertaining to articles published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO). In this study, we examined the prevalence and nature of COI among scientific articles published in JCO. Methods: We reviewed original articles, review articles and ASCO special articles published in JCO from August 2005 to January 2006. COI was categorized into employment/leadership position, consultancy, stock ownership, honoraria, research funding, expert testimonials and other remuneration. Results: Out of a total of 514 articles reviewed, original articles, review articles and ASCO special articles comprised 88.3%, 11.1% and 0.06% respectively. Overall 34.8% of the articles reported at least 1 COI. Among articles with COI, 21.8%, 27.4% and 50.8% reported 1, 2 and 3 or more COI, respectively. Consultancy (64.8%) was the most common COI, followed by honoraria (64.2%), research funds (58.7%), employment/leadership (40.2%), stock ownership (39.7%), testimonials (11.2%) and other remuneration (10.1%). COI was reported in 58.3% of clinical trials compared to 24.6% in other articles (P = 0.001). Out of the total of 4,944 authors, 14.0% reported a COI. Among authors with COI, 47.9%, 38.2% and 13.9% reported 1, 2 and 3 or more COI, respectively. The prevalence of COI among articles originating from North America, Europe and Asia/Australia were 38.2%, 31.8% and 13.8%, respectively (P = 0.020). Conclusions: COI were widely prevalent in articles published in JCO. Clinical trials had a higher prevalence of COI compared to other scientific articles. The prevalence of COI was equally high in articles originating from North America and Europe, but much lower in articles from Asia/Australia. The majority of reported COI were unrelated to research funds. No significant financial relationships to disclose.