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When people think about clinical studies, they often focus on the testing phase. Images of laboratory equipment, data analysis, and scientific discoveries typically come to mind. However, many researchers know that some of the most significant challenges in a study can arise long before any testing takes place. In fact, the success of a clinical study is often determined during the earliest stages of sample collection, handling, and preparation. If mistakes occur at this point, even the most sophisticated testing methods may struggle to produce reliable results.

For research organisations seeking accurate, reproducible data, getting the foundations right is just as important as the analysis itself. For guidance on how to read and assess the quality of a clinical study once results are published, see this primer on how to evaluate a clinical trial.

[caption id="attachment_75340" align="aligncenter" width="500"]First Mistake in a Clinical Study Photo by Jonathan Borba[/caption]