What is a primary focus of the IRB when reviewing research proposals?

The primary focus of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) when reviewing research proposals is to evaluate the safety and welfare of research participants. The IRB is tasked with ensuring that all aspects of the study uphold ethical standards and protect individuals from potential harm. This includes looking into informed consent processes, risk assessment, and how participants' privacy and confidentiality will be maintained.

The IRB's role is critical in safeguarding the rights and well-being of participants involved in research, which is a fundamental principle of ethical research practices. Researchers must demonstrate how they will minimize risks and ensure that participants are fully informed about the nature of the study, its risks, and their rights.

By focusing on the safety and welfare of participants, the IRB plays a key role in fostering public trust in research and ensuring the ethical integrity of scientific inquiry.