Table 2 Definitions of conflicts of interest

A conflict of interest is a set of circumstances that creates a risk that professional judgment or actions regarding a primary interest will be unduly influenced by a secondary interest.[28] (IoM)

“A divergence between an individual’s private interests and his or her professional obligations such that an independent observer might reasonably question whether the individual’s professional actions or decisions are motivated by personal gain, such as financial, academic advancement, clinical revenue streams or community standing”[29]

“A financial or intellectual relationship that may impact an individual’s ability to approach a scientific question with an open mind”[29].