Informed consent is one of the foundational principles in medical research and clinical trials. It ensures that participants are fully aware of the potential risks, benefits, and procedures involved in a study before they agree to participate. Over the years, there have been numerous instances where the lack of informed consent has led to ethical scandals and legal ramifications. As medical research becomes more complex, the importance of obtaining genuine, informed consent has grown exponentially. This article explores the intricacies of informed consent in medical research, the ethical obligations of researchers, and the potential legal consequences when consent is not properly obtained or when medical advice falls short of ethical standards. (more…)