Institutional review boards
An institutional review board, or IRB, is a committee that reviews research plans involving people. It looks at risks, consent materials, and how participants are selected.
IRBs include scientific and non-scientific members, and at least one member not affiliated with the institution.
Review does not stop at approval
Approved studies are reviewed again at intervals. Changes to a study plan generally need review before they take effect, and unexpected problems must be reported.
Reporting concerns
Consent documents should list contacts for questions about your rights as a participant. Those contacts are usually separate from the study team so concerns can be raised freely.
This article is general education only. It is not health or legal advice. Talk with your own licensed healthcare provider about any decision to take part in a study.