What can result from failing to disclose conflicts of interest in research?

Failing to disclose conflicts of interest in research can lead to potential ethical violations and a significant loss of research credibility. Conflicts of interest arise when a researcher has personal, financial, or professional interests that could influence their research decisions, leading to biased results or interpretations. When these conflicts are not disclosed, it compromises the integrity of the research process and can undermine public trust in the findings. It is crucial for researchers to transparently report any conflicts so that they can be appropriately managed and do not affect the validity of the research outcomes. This promotes accountability and maintains the ethical standards of the scientific community, ensuring that research remains objective and reliable.