Menopause research and audit

Abstract

This review begins by outlining some of the history behind the World Medical Association's Declaration of Helsinki. The Helsinki distinction between therapeutic and non-therapeutic research will be described and how this relates to a hypothetical HRT trial is considered. Then the ethical significance of research when it is combined with professional care is discussed.

The concept of clinical equipoise is one relevant to menopause research when it involves randomising treatments to participants. Other important considerations mentioned include minimal risk and scientific merit. The final section of the review suggests that the distinction between clinical audit and research is one likely to become increasingly important and that many of the more significant issues associated with audit will relate to confidentiality.