Which of the following best describes ethical approval for research involving human subjects?

The assertion that ethical approval for research involving human subjects is a regulatory requirement that must be met is accurate. Ethical approval is established to ensure the safety, rights, and welfare of participants involved in research studies. Regulatory bodies, such as Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) or ethics committees, are mandated to review research proposals to confirm that they adhere to established ethical standards and guidelines.

This requirement applies to all research involving human subjects, regardless of the source of funding or whether the research addresses sensitive topics. Obtaining ethical approval not only protects participants but also upholds the integrity of the research process. Researchers are obligated to demonstrate that their study designs have considered potential risks and benefits, have implemented informed consent processes, and have suitable measures in place for confidentiality and data protection.

In summary, ethical approval serves as a crucial step in research involving human subjects, providing a layer of oversight that ensures ethical considerations are thoroughly addressed before the research can proceed.