Revised supplementary note 2 adopted by the Council at its 113th Session June 1992.
Scientific research is essential to advance knowledge of all aspects of childhood disease.
Such research, however, may be performed only when the information sought cannot in practice be obtained by other means. All research must be based on sound scientific concepts and must be planned and conducted in such a fashion as will reasonably ensure that definite conclusions will be reached. Some programs may offer direct benefit to the individual child, while others may have a broader community purpose. In appropriate circumstances both may be ethical. In determining whether there is an acceptable relationship between potential benefit and the risk involve, it is essential to weight the risk of the proposed research against customary therapeutic measures and the natural hazards of the disease or condition.