Conflict of Interest

What should be disclosed?

A competing interest can arise from a financial, professional, institutional, or personal relationship relevant to the work. Disclosure allows editors and readers to evaluate the context; it does not automatically invalidate the research.

For authors

Include a competing-interest statement in the manuscript and disclose relevant funding. Explain the role of any sponsor in study design, data collection, analysis, interpretation, and the decision to submit.

Where an interest exists, name the relationship and the relevant organization clearly. Avoid a vague statement that does not help readers understand the possible influence.

For reviewers & editors

• Declare a relevant relationship before accepting a review or editorial assignment.
• Decline or seek guidance when a relationship prevents an impartial assessment.
• Keep unpublished manuscripts and ideas confidential and do not use them for personal advantage.
• Tell the editorial office if a relevant interest becomes apparent after an assignment has begun.

If a disclosure was omitted

Contact the editorial office promptly with the manuscript ID or article DOI and a complete statement. The appropriate response depends on the timing and significance of the omitted information. A published disclosure may need correction; serious concerns affecting the reliability of the work require further assessment.

See Publication Ethics and Corrections & Retractions for related guidance.