Which practice protects participant privacy in reporting study results?

• A. Publishing raw data with identifiers to enhance transparency.
• B. Use de-identified data, aggregate results, limit access, secure storage, and consent for data sharing.
• C. Share data with unauthorized personnel to speed up research.
• D. Report results with identifying information.

Answer: (B)

Protecting participant privacy in reporting study results means handling data so individuals cannot be identified. The best approach is to use de-identified data, present results in aggregate form, limit who can access the data, store it securely, and obtain consent for any data sharing. De-identification involves removing or masking personal identifiers like names and addresses, and often generalizing dates or other indirect clues to reduce the chance someone could be identified. Aggregation means sharing group-level results rather than individual records. Limiting access and securing storage reduce the risk of data breaches, and consent ensures participants agree to how their information will be used. Publishing data with identifying information, sharing with unauthorized personnel, or reporting results that include identifying details would violate privacy and ethical standards.