Confidentiality

What is a "Certificate of Confidentiality"?

Sometimes participants involved in genetic studies are concerned that the information they share through participation may be disclosed. To safeguard against this, The Family Lung Cancer Study has obtained a Certificate of Confidentiality. This certificate allows researchers to prevent the involuntary release of any portion of research records containing information that could be used to identify study participants. It also protects researchers from being compelled to disclose identifying information in any civil, criminal, administrative, legislative, or other proceedings whether federal, state or local. The certificate was issued by the National Cancer Institute on behalf of the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services and it allows us to protect your confidentiality. The information we collect from you may only be reviewed by the National Cancer Institute for internal evaluation or during a review.

For more information contact the National Institutes of Health Office of Extramural Research.