REC15/2739

REC15/2739

REC15/2739 is a designation used in medical research to refer to a specific clinical trial or research ethics committee (REC) approval number. This identifier is crucial for tracking and referencing the ethical approval of research studies involving human participants. Understanding the significance of REC numbers is essential for medical students, researchers, and professionals involved in clinical research.

Overview

REC15/2739 is an example of a unique identifier assigned to a research study by a Research Ethics Committee. These committees are responsible for reviewing research proposals to ensure that they comply with ethical standards and protect the rights and welfare of participants. The number itself does not convey specific information about the study but serves as a reference point for documentation and communication.

Purpose of REC Numbers

REC numbers, such as REC15/2739, serve several important purposes:

1. Tracking and Documentation: They provide a unique identifier for each study, allowing for efficient tracking and documentation within research institutions and regulatory bodies.

2. Ethical Oversight: They indicate that a study has undergone ethical review and has been approved to proceed, ensuring that it meets established ethical guidelines.

3. Transparency and Accountability: They facilitate transparency and accountability in research by providing a reference that can be used in publications, reports, and communications.

Process of Obtaining an REC Number

To obtain an REC number, researchers must submit a detailed application to a Research Ethics Committee. This application typically includes:

- A comprehensive study protocol outlining the research objectives, methodology, and participant recruitment strategies. - Information on potential risks and benefits to participants. - Details on how informed consent will be obtained and documented. - Plans for data management and confidentiality.

The REC reviews the application to ensure that the study complies with ethical standards and that the rights and welfare of participants are protected. If approved, the study is assigned a unique REC number, such as REC15/2739.

Importance in Medical Research

REC numbers are critical in medical research for several reasons:

- They ensure that studies are conducted ethically and responsibly. - They provide a mechanism for accountability and oversight. - They facilitate communication and collaboration among researchers, institutions, and regulatory bodies.

Also see

- Research Ethics Committee - Clinical Trial - Informed Consent - Human Subjects Research