rries many benefits that do not depend on trial outcome. The participants receive extra care and attention, as well as new information, simply by taking part in a trial. Local physicians learn state-of-the-art management. In addition, global trials promote exchange of knowledge and experience between investigators in different countries. “International conduct of clinical trials benefits everyone,” Aisen said. “It benefits the local communities, and it benefits global health by supporting the development of new treatments.” He and the study authors agree that centralized oversight and improved international collaborations between investigators could help ensure that clinical trials adhere to global standards of scientific rigor and ethical behavior.—Esther Landhuis
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- Glickman SW, McHutchison JG, Peterson ED, Cairns CB, Harrington RA, Califf RM, Schulman KA. Ethical and scientific implications of the globalization of clinical research. N Engl J Med. 2009 Feb 19;360(8):816-23. PubMed.