Author: Andrea Bastek
Publisher: MedCity News
Publication Year: 2021
Summary: The following article describes how the collection and distribution of big data has the potential to revolutionize the work done in clinical-trial research, particularly by contact research organizations (CROs). However, there are risks associated with big data transfer that has the potential to not only hurt data subjects but the research industry itself. Mitigating these risks is crucial (but possible) to ensure that advanced analytics will only serve to benefit CROs, clinical trial researchers, data subjects, and public health. Crediting data sources before data sharing is key; there is a genuine fear that irresponsible data sharing will frighten researchers, who have fears of not receiving appropriate credit for their data collection and analysis. This, in turn, could discourage future collaboration, robbing CROs of the benefits of data sharing and advanced analytics. Careful data analysis and reporting, as obvious as it sounds, is particularly crucial within CROs; the stakes are particularly high because of how CRO findings can strongly impact public health sentiments and thoughts. Irresponsible analysis may put disenfranchised or stigmatized groups at high risk (especially those suffering from HIV/AIDS and mental illness).