What is the main purpose of Institutional Review Boards (IRBs)?

The main purpose of Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) is to review and approve research involving human subjects to ensure ethical standards are met. IRBs are essential in the research process as they protect the rights and welfare of participants. They assess research proposals to ensure that the risks are minimized, that the potential benefits outweigh those risks, and that participants give informed consent. This oversight is crucial for maintaining ethical integrity and public trust in research practices. By rigorously evaluating each study, IRBs help ensure that the rights of individuals are safeguarded throughout the research process.