Which Belmont principle concerns fair distribution of risks and benefits?

Which Belmont principle concerns fair distribution of risks and benefits?

• A. Justice (Belmont)
• B. Beneficence (Belmont)
• C. Respect for persons (Belmont)
• D. Informed consent

Answer: (A)

The Belmont principle that concerns fair distribution of risks and benefits is Justice. It centers on fairness in who bears the burdens of research and who gains its benefits. This means designing studies so that no group is disproportionately burdened or exploited, and ensuring that the selection of participants is equitable and not based on convenience or vulnerability alone. It also implies that benefits, such as access to effective interventions or post-trial advantages, are shared fairly and that vulnerable populations aren’t unfairly targeted or left out of potential benefits. Beneficence, by contrast, is about maximizing potential benefits while minimizing harms to participants. Respect for persons focuses on honoring autonomy and protecting individuals, including obtaining informed consent and safeguarding those with limited decision-making capacity. Informed consent is the process that embodies respect for persons, ensuring voluntary and informed participation.

The Belmont principle that concerns fair distribution of risks and benefits is Justice. It centers on fairness in who bears the burdens of research and who gains its benefits. This means designing studies so that no group is disproportionately burdened or exploited, and ensuring that the selection of participants is equitable and not based on convenience or vulnerability alone. It also implies that benefits, such as access to effective interventions or post-trial advantages, are shared fairly and that vulnerable populations aren’t unfairly targeted or left out of potential benefits.

Beneficence, by contrast, is about maximizing potential benefits while minimizing harms to participants. Respect for persons focuses on honoring autonomy and protecting individuals, including obtaining informed consent and safeguarding those with limited decision-making capacity. Informed consent is the process that embodies respect for persons, ensuring voluntary and informed participation.