Conflict of interest declaration: why and what constitutes as responsible and ethical declaration?

ABSTRACT

This is one among a series of editorials related to ethics in publication. The present editorial deals with a key issue of the declaration of conflicts of interest (COI), which all stake holders, especially authors should be aware of. Such issues are now mandatory ethical requirements and not just for name sake. Broadly speaking, COI comes into existence when someone's position may be influenced by his vested interests. World Association of Medical Editors (WAME) says 'journals have a responsibility to raise awareness and educate the research community about COI.'