What does ‘unpaid consultant’ signify? A survey of euphemistic language in conflict of interest declarations

Abstract

Declaration of potential conflicts of interest is now required when submitting manuscripts to almost all biomedical journals, but there is much uncertainty regarding their utility for editors, reviewers, and readers. Although financial involvements are typically emphasized, non-financial competing interests are also important but more difficult to define, measure, and manage. Authors are increasingly referring to themselves as ‘unpaid consultants’. By its literal meaning, this indicates the absence of direct monetary reimbursement. Other benefits from industry involvement may nonetheless constitute actual or perceived conflicts of interest and ought to be disclosed. We systematically studied the term ‘unpaid consultant’ in medical article disclosures by analyzing its use over time, links to vested interests, and association with particular journals and authors.