When we discuss research transparency, we refer to several essential components:
- Registration: Publicly declaring the commencement of a study.
- Reporting Results: Sharing the findings of the study with the public.
- Informing Participants: Ensuring that individuals who participated in the study are informed about its findings.
- Sharing Study Data and Tissue: Enabling further research by making study data and tissue samples accessible.
This year, the spotlight is on the registration of clinical trials through the Make it Public campaign.
Make it Public 2024: Elevating Registration Rates
Registering research marks the initial and crucial step toward research transparency. Studies indicate that if health and social care research studies are added to a public register before their commencement, two-thirds of the UK public would place more confidence in their findings.
While clinical trial registration rates are currently commendable, the aim is to unite the research community to achieve 100% registration for clinical trials.
Recognizing existing issues and perceived barriers, this Make it Public week focuses on addressing obstacles to research registration and highlighting the benefits from various perspectives within the research community.
Clinical Trial Registration Data
Since 2015, data regarding clinical trial registration has been published annually, typically as a snapshot audit showcasing the proportion of registered trials. However, for this year’s Make it Public week, data on UK clinical trials receiving favorable opinions from Research Ethics Committees (RECs) in 2022 was shared, including registration numbers or explanations for non-registration, if provided.
#MakeitPublic Workshop: Advocating for Complete Clinical Trial Registration
During Make it Public week, an online workshop was conducted, dedicated to exploring themes in research registration and addressing perceived issues and barriers. Chaired by the co-chairs of the Make it Public campaign group, the workshop featured:
- Talks from influential speakers across the research sector, providing guidance on delivering best practices in registration.
- A Q&A session with expert panelists.
- Facilitated breakout groups aimed at discussing individual concerns regarding registration, with a focus on finding solutions.
Further details regarding the outcomes of the workshop will be shared on this page soon.
#MakeitPublic and its Significance
Members of the Make it Public campaign group and beyond share insights into why clinical trial registration holds importance:
For more information and to stay updated, visit Make it Public campaign’s page.